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THE BLOG

Best Books for Artists to Inspire and Elevate Your Craft

Whether you're looking to sharpen your business skills or boost your creativity, finding the right books can make all the difference in your journey as an artist. Below, I’ve curated a list of the best books for artists that offer valuable insights into both the business and creative sides of being an artist. From marketing strategies to inner reflection, these books are tailored to help artists grow personally and professionally.


Check out all these books on my ShopMy Collection and start transforming your art business today!


Affiliate Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend books I personally love and believe will benefit you on your artistic journey.



Best Books for Artists

1. This Is Marketing by Seth Godin

For artists looking to build their brand and attract clients, Seth Godin's This Is Marketing is a game-changer. Godin emphasizes the importance of storytelling, creating connections, and targeting the right audience. This book is essential for artists who want to master the art of marketing without feeling salesy, while also understanding how to position their art to resonate with collectors and buyers.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Learn how to market authentically and connect with your ideal audience

  • Actionable steps for building a loyal following

  • Emphasis on storytelling and personal branding



2. Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell

Dan Martell teaches artists how to take control of their time and avoid burnout in his book, Buy Back Your Time. If you find yourself overwhelmed with the administrative side of your art business, this book provides strategies to delegate, automate, and free up more time for creativity. For artists juggling both business tasks and creative pursuits, this book offers practical solutions to help you reclaim your day.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Time management tips tailored for entrepreneurs and creatives

  • Learn how to delegate non-creative tasks

  • Free up more time for your artistic practice


    Click here to purchase.


3. Profit First by Mike Michalowicz

Managing the financial side of your art business is crucial for long-term success. Mike Michalowicz's Profit First outlines a straightforward approach to managing your finances by prioritizing profit and ensuring sustainability. Whether you're a seasoned artist or just starting out, this book will help you structure your finances in a way that allows your creative business to thrive.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Simplifies managing your finances as an artist

  • Encourages a sustainable approach to profitability

  • Provides actionable steps to take control of your business’s financial health


Click here to purchase.


4. Launch by Jeff Walker

Want to learn how to launch your art collections, online courses, or new products successfully? Jeff Walker’s Launch is an excellent guide for artists looking to create hype around their work. Walker’s strategies for building anticipation and engaging with your audience can help turn your next collection release into a major success.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Proven launch strategies to sell your art or creative services

  • Actionable advice for building anticipation around your work

  • Ideal for artists launching new collections or digital products




5. Your Inner Critic Is a Big Jerk by Danielle Krysa

For every artist who has ever struggled with self-doubt, Danielle Krysa has written Your Inner Critic Is a Big Jerk, a funny, relatable book that helps artists silence the negative voice in their heads. This is a perfect read for artists who need a confidence boost and practical strategies for overcoming self-criticism.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Insightful advice for overcoming self-doubt

  • Funny and approachable, making it easy to relate to

  • Encourages a healthier, more positive mindset for creatives



6. The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron

If we are discussing the best books for artists, we have to mention the classic, Julia Cameron’s The Artist’s Way is a must-read for anyone looking to reconnect with their creativity. Structured as a 12-week program, the book offers exercises like morning pages and artist dates to help you rediscover the joy in creating. Whether you’re feeling creatively stuck or just need a boost, this book is a powerful tool for artists.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Structured program to help unlock creativity

  • Encourages daily creative habits like journaling

  • Perfect for artists looking to overcome creative blocks



7. The Perfect Day Formula by Craig Ballantyne

Craig Ballantyne’s The Perfect Day Formula is all about creating structure and balance in your day-to-day life. For artists juggling multiple responsibilities, this book teaches you how to plan your day around what matters most, allowing for a more focused and productive creative process.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Helps artists structure their days for maximum productivity

  • Encourages a balanced approach to creative work and personal life

  • Provides actionable advice for building your perfect routine




8. 101 Essays That Will Change The Way You Think by Brianna Wiest

For artists seeking a shift in mindset, Brianna Wiest’s 101 Essays That Will Change The Way You Think offers deep insights into self-awareness, personal growth, and how to approach your life and career from a place of intention. This book is full of thoughtful essays that will inspire you to reimagine your creative process and business.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Encourages reflection and deeper thinking about your life and art

  • Offers fresh perspectives on personal growth and creativity

  • Great for reading in small doses, ideal for busy artists



9. Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert

Elizabeth Gilbert’s Big Magic is an inspiring read for any artist looking to embrace creativity and overcome fear. This book is all about letting go of perfectionism, accepting the creative process, and finding joy in your work. If you need a motivational push, this book will help you feel more confident and excited about your art.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Encourages a joyful and fearless approach to creativity

  • Ideal for artists struggling with perfectionism or creative fear

  • Inspires you to embrace the creative journey fully




10. Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon

A modern creative classic, Austin Kleon’s Steal Like an Artist is all about taking inspiration from what’s around you and remixing it to fit your style. This is a quick, fun read full of actionable advice, perfect for artists looking to explore new ideas and develop their personal artistic voice.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Encourages creativity and experimentation

  • Helps artists embrace influence and remix ideas

  • Short and packed with practical advice



Where to Find These Books

All these books are available on my ShopMy Collection. I’ve handpicked them because they offer unique insights and strategies to help you grow as both an artist and an entrepreneur. Whether you need help with self-confidence, marketing, or just a boost in creativity, these books have you covered!


Final Thoughts

Investing in books is one of the most affordable and impactful ways to improve your art practice and business. Whether you're looking to develop better business strategies, boost your creativity, or gain confidence, the right books can offer valuable lessons and inspiration.


Don’t forget to check out my ShopMy Collection for these and other resources to help you along your creative journey!

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