Top 15 books about Art:

These are all books that I have enjoyed reading about the creation of art, the artists, and the collectors, offering insights into the passion, process, and  context behind renowned works and  collections.

If you are interested in listening to more about paintings and their composition, this BBC Sounds 'Moving Pictures'  programme is an excellent podcast, that I could listen to again and again. The paintings they discuss are all on  Google Arts & Culture,  it is best to have the picture open, and be looking at it, studying it, as they speak. I just wish they would make more programmes. 

Moving Pictures — Google Arts & Culture

BBC Sounds - Moving Pictures - Available Episodes

I would love to hear your opinion about these book choices, and any recommendations you have, please complete the form at the bottom of this page.

Susan Vreeland

Susan Vreeland (1946–2017) was an acclaimed American author known for her novels that explored the lives of famous artists and the transformative power of art. Born on January 20, 1946, in Racine, Wisconsin, Vreeland had a passion for both literature and the visual arts, which she skillfully intertwined in her writing. She gained widespread recognition with her 1999 novel Girl in Hyacinth Blue, which traces the journey of a fictional Vermeer painting. Other notable works include The Passion of Artemisia (2002) and Luncheon of the Boating Party (2007). 

I really enjoyed immersing myself in these books that described the passionate lives of artists:

1. The Passion of Artemisia 

This novel brings to life the story of Artemisia Gentileschi, one of the most renowned female painters of the Baroque period. Vreeland captures Artemisia’s deep passion for art, her bold use of color, and her defiance of the gender norms of her time. The novel immerses the reader in the world of 17th-century painting, showing how Artemisia’s unique ability to blend light and shadow, emotion, and movement in her works made her a revolutionary artist.

2. Luncheon of the Boating Party 

Set against the backdrop of Renoir’s iconic painting, this novel explores the vibrant world of French Impressionism. Vreeland beautifully depicts the interplay of light and colour, capturing the way Renoir used his brush to render the warmth of a summer day and the lively atmosphere of a gathering of friends. Through the novel, the reader gains a sense of Renoir's artistic vision and his commitment to portraying the beauty of everyday moments through colour and texture.

3. Girl in Hyacinth Blue  

This novel traces the journey of a fictional Vermeer painting across centuries, reflecting the transcendent power of art to evoke deep emotions. Vreeland skillfully portrays how the painting's delicate hues of blue, light, and shadow captivate each owner. The novel emphasises how a single painting can communicate the artist's mastery of medium and colour, while stirring the hearts of those who come into its orbit.

Walter Isaacson 

Walter Isaacson, born on May 20, 1952, in New Orleans, Louisiana, is an acclaimed American author, journalist, and biographer. He is best known for his comprehensive biographies of influential figures, including Steve Jobs (2011), Albert Einstein (2007), and Leonardo da Vinci (2017).

4. Leonardo Da Vinci: The Biography

In Leonardo da Vinci, Walter Isaacson delves into the extraordinary talents of one of history's greatest artists. The book is accessible, pacy and exciting. Isaacson explores Leonardo's mastery of light and shadow, his innovative techniques in sfumato and chiaroscuro, and his keen observation of the human form, which allowed him to breathe life into his subjects. The book illuminates Leonardo’s relentless curiosity and scientific approach to art, highlighting how his understanding of anatomy and nature informed his breathtaking compositions.

Tracy Chevalier

Tracy Chevalier, born on October 23, 1962, in Washington, D.C., is an acclaimed American-British author best known for her historical novels. She studied English literature at Oberlin College and later moved to England, where she began her writing career. Chevalier gained widespread recognition with her debut novel, Girl with a Pearl Earring (1999), her subsequent works, including The Virgin Blue (1997) and Remarkable Creatures (2009). I am really looking forward to reading her latest book The Glassmaker

5. Girl With a Pearl Earring

In The Girl with a Pearl Earring, Tracy Chevalier delves into the intricate world of Johannes Vermeer, highlighting his exceptional skills as an artist. Through the eyes of Griet, the young maid who becomes the subject of his famous painting, the narrative illuminates Vermeer’s meticulous attention to detail and mastery of light and colour. Chevalier captures the way Vermeer transforms simple moments into profound visual experiences, using a delicate palette to evoke emotion and depth. The novel celebrates his ability to infuse everyday life with beauty, showcasing how his artistic vision transcends time and continues to resonate with viewers. You will never look at a Vermeer painting in the same way again. 

Martin Gayford

Martin Gayford, born on January 14, 1952, is a British art critic and author renowned for his insightful explorations of art and artists. He is particularly known for his friendship with the celebrated British painter David Hockney, which he documented in the book A Bigger Message: Conversations with David Hockney (2011). This dialogue reveals not only Hockney's artistic processes but also his reflections on modern art and the interplay of technology and creativity. Gayford’s other notable works include The Yellow House: Van Gogh, Gauguin, and Nine Other Men (2006) and Constable in Love (2010), both of which demonstrate his deep appreciation for the lives and works of iconic artists. Through his writings, Gayford offers readers a captivating lens into the art world, intertwining personal narratives with historical contexts.

6. Spring Cannot be Cancelled: David Hockney in Normandy

In Spring Cannot be Cancelled: David Hockney in Normandy, Martin Gayford explores the vibrant interplay between Hockney's artistry and the stunning landscapes of Normandy. Through a series of vivid paintings, Hockney captures the essence of spring, celebrating the lush colours and intricate details of the region’s gardens and countryside. Gayford eloquently describes how Hockney’s innovative use of medium brings the flora to life, showcasing his ability to blend traditional techniques with modern sensibilities. The book is full of Hockney’s brightly coloured paintings, which I really enjoy. 

Grayson Perry

Grayson Perry, born on March 24, 1960, is a celebrated British artist and author known for his provocative ceramics, textiles, and vibrant cross-dressing persona. His written works often explore themes of identity, gender, and societal norms, blending autobiography with cultural commentary. Perry’s notable publications include "Portrait of the Artist as a Young Girl" (2016), a memoir reflecting on his upbringing and artistic journey, and "The Descent of Man" (2016), where he critiques masculinity in contemporary society. Through his distinctive voice and engaging narrative style, Perry invites readers to challenge conventions and rethink their perceptions of art and identity.

7. The Descent of Man by Grayson Perry is a thought-provoking and witty exploration of masculinity in modern society. Perry examines how traditional ideas of manhood can be limiting and harmful, not only to men but to everyone. Perry challenges stereotypes, encourages self-reflection, and suggests ways to embrace a more compassionate, flexible, and fulfilling vision of what it means to be a man today.

Edmund de Waal

Edmund de Waal, born on February 2, 1964, is a renowned British author and ceramicist, celebrated for his exploration of memory, family, and art. He hails from the illustrious Wittgenstein family, which includes the influential philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein. The family's rich intellectual heritage profoundly shapes de Waal’s work, intertwining themes of history and identity. His background as a potter enhances his narrative style, blending craftsmanship with literary finesse, while his lineage provides a unique lens through which he examines the complexities of familial ties and cultural legacy.

8. The Hare with Amber Eyes: A Hidden Inheritance by de Waal, Edmund (2011)

In Hare with Amber Eyes, Edmund de Waal weaves a poignant narrative that intertwines art, family, and memory through the lens of a collection of exquisite netsuke. These small Japanese carvings, including a striking hare with amber eyes, serve as a touchstone for de Waal's exploration of his own ancestry and the turbulent history of his family. As he traces the journey of the netsuke through generations and across continents, de Waal illuminates the beauty and fragility of art, emphasizing how each piece encapsulates a moment in time, rich in color and detail. The book is a meditation on loss, identity, and the enduring power of objects to connect us to our past.

9. The White Road: a pilgrimage of sorts

In The White Road, Edmund de Waal embarks on a poignant exploration of porcelain, weaving together personal narrative and historical inquiry. The book delves into the artistry and craftsmanship behind this delicate medium, tracing its origins from the far reaches of China to the studios of European potters. De Waal’s lyrical prose captures the ethereal beauty of porcelain’s translucent whiteness and its transformative power, revealing how this humble material has shaped cultural identities and artistic expression throughout history. As he reflects on the intersections of art, memory, and desire, the reader is invited to appreciate the intricate stories that lie within each fragile piece.

10. Letters to Camondo

Letters to Camondo by Edmund de Waal is a poignant exploration of art, memory, and loss. Through a series of letters to the legacy of the Camondo family, whose stunning Parisian home became a museum of decorative arts, de Waal reflects on the beauty of the porcelain collection that once adorned their lives. The narrative intertwines personal history with the larger context of Jewish heritage, evoking a deep sense of longing and connection to the past. De Waal's lyrical prose captures the delicate interplay of objects and memories, revealing how art can serve as a bridge between generations, while also mourning the fragility of these connections in the face of history's turbulence.

The Nissim de Camondo Museum in Paris is a stunning mansion showcasing an exquisite collection of 18th-century French decorative arts, while also telling the poignant story of the Camondo family, making it a cultural and historical treasure worth visiting.

Musée Nissim de Camondo (madparis.fr)

Peggy Guggenheim

11. Peggy Guggenheim: The Life of an Art Addict by Anton Gill delves into the fascinating life of Peggy Guggenheim, a woman driven by her passion for modern art. Born into wealth, Peggy carved out her legacy by championing avant-garde artists and amassing a groundbreaking collection. The book explores her eccentric lifestyle, including her famous villa in Venice, and the extraordinary paintings and sculptures she purchased. Her collection features works by Picasso, Pollock, and Miró, among others, and her villa is an iconic museum, well worth visiting, reflecting her pivotal role in shaping 20th-century art.

Guggenheim museum in Venice: exhibition and guided tour - Peggy Guggenheim Collection (guggenheim-venice.it)

Frida Kahlo

12. Frida: The Biography of Frida Kahlo by Hayden Herrera is a detailed and deeply researched account of the life of the iconic Mexican artist Frida Kahlo. The biography explores Kahlo's turbulent life, from her childhood and near-fatal  bus accident to her passionate and tumultuous marriage to Diego Rivera. Herrera delves into the personal struggles and political passions that influenced Kahlo's vibrant and often surreal art, offering a nuanced portrait of the artist as both a woman and a creative force. The book has become one of the most respected works on Kahlo, contributing significantly to her enduring legacy.

When you get to see Frida Kahlo's art, you can feel its raw emotion. Her use of vivid symbolism in her paintings, often reflects her personal pain, physical suffering, and complex identity. Her works blend elements of Mexican folk art with surrealist influences, although she rejected the surrealist label. Kahlo frequently used self-portraits to explore themes of femininity, disability, and her tumultuous relationships, especially with her husband, Diego Rivera. Her vibrant colours and striking imagery, including depictions of her own broken body and the natural world, speak to her resilience and connection to Mexican culture. Kahlo’s art is iconic, representing both her individual struggle and her national identity.

The film 'Frida', starring Salma Hayek, beautifully captures the vibrant and tumultuous life of Frida Kahlo, while the Netflix documentary delves deeper into her personal struggles, artistic genius, and enduring cultural legacy.

13. The Lady in Gold: The Extraordinary Tale of Gustav Klimt's Masterpiece by Anne-Marie O'Connor

The Lady in Gold by Anne-Marie O’Connor tells the fascinating story of Gustav Klimt’s masterpiece, Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer I. The book traces the painting’s creation, its connection to Vienna’s vibrant cultural scene, and its seizure by the Nazis during World War II. It also follows the long legal battle to recover the artwork, highlighting themes of art, history, and justice.

14. The Moon and Sixpence by W. Somerset Maugham is a novel inspired by the life of artist Paul Gauguin. It tells the story of Charles Strickland, a London stockbroker who abandons his family to pursue his passion for painting, eventually living in poverty and isolation in Tahiti. While Maugham acknowledges Strickland’s genius, he doesn’t shy away from his darker traits, including his selfishness, cruelty, and disregard for others. This nuanced portrayal reflects Gauguin’s complex character, capturing both his artistic brilliance and his moral flaws.

Natasha Solomons

Natasha Solomons, born on December 27, 1972, is a British author renowned for her vivid storytelling and rich character development. She gained significant recognition with her debut novel, Mr. Rosenblum’s List (2009), but her work I, Mona Lisa (2010) particularly stands out. 

15. I, Mona Lisa

In I, Mona Lisa, the legendary painting comes to life through the captivating voice of Mona Lisa herself. This unique perspective allows readers to delve into the mind of one of art history's most enigmatic figures, as she reflects on Leonardo da Vinci's extraordinary skills as an artist. Solomons vividly captures Leonardo's meticulous attention to detail, his innovative techniques in blending light and shadow, and his unparalleled ability to infuse life and emotion into his subjects. Through Mona Lisa’s eyes, we witness the artistry behind her creation, gaining insight into the intimate bond between the artist and his masterpiece, and the profound legacy that transcends time.