Ten of my Favorite Books to Inspire Creativity

Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash

Introducing your children to the world of art can be an incredibly rewarding journey, filled with vibrant colors, fascinating stories, and endless creativity. One of the best ways to start is by diving into some fantastic art books that bring the magic of painting, drawing, and famous artists to life. Whether your little one is an aspiring Picasso or just loves to doodle, these books will inspire, educate, and entertain. So, grab your favorite cozy spot and get ready to explore some of my favorite art books for kids!

1. "The Noisy Paint Box" by Barb Rosenstock

This beautifully illustrated book tells the story of Vasily Kandinsky, a pioneer of abstract art, who heard colors as sounds. It’s a perfect introduction to the idea that art can express emotions and ideas uniquely.

2. "Frida Kahlo and Her Animalitos" by Monica Brown

Explore the vibrant life of Frida Kahlo through the lens of her beloved pets. This book highlights her iconic art and introduces children to the animals that inspired her.

3. "Radiant Child: The Story of Young Artist Jean-Michel Basquiat" by Javaka Steptoe

A Caldecott-winning book, "Radiant Child" tells the inspiring story of Jean-Michel Basquiat, a groundbreaking artist who rose from humble beginnings to become a star in the art world.

4. "The Day the Crayons Quit" by Drew Daywalt

This one just makes me laugh! This fun and imaginative book gives personifies the crayons, each with their own personality and story. It’s a playful way to encourage children to see colors in a new light and to think creatively about their art tools.

5. "Henri’s Scissors" by Jeanette Winter

Learn about the later life of Henri Matisse, who, despite illness, created some of his most famous works using only paper and scissors. It’s a tale of resilience and creativity, perfect for inspiring young artists.

6. "Art & Max" by David Wiesner

A delightful story about two friends exploring the world of art, this book is full of surprises and creative twists. It’s a great way to introduce children to different art styles and techniques.

7. "Katie and the Starry Night" by James Mayhew

Join Katie as she steps into Van Gogh’s "Starry Night" and other famous paintings. This interactive story makes classic art approachable and fun for kids, sparking their imagination as they learn about famous works.

8. "The Dot" by Peter H. Reynolds

A story about finding the artist within, "The Dot" encourages children to be brave and start creating, no matter how small the first step might be. It’s a must-read for every young artist who’s ever doubted their ability.

9. "Vincent’s Starry Night and Other Stories: A Children’s History of Art" by Michael Bird

This book offers a journey through art history, from cave paintings to modern art, with engaging and easy stories for children to understand. It’s a perfect introduction to the rich tapestry of art history.

10. "Mix It Up!" by Hervé Tullet

An interactive book that encourages kids to play with colors and explore how they mix and blend. It’s a hands-on way to teach children about color theory and to inspire their next masterpiece.

Art Resources from Apprentice Art Studio

If these books have your child eager to create their own works of art, Apprentice Art Studio has just the resources to keep that creative momentum going! We offer a variety of high-quality art products designed specifically for young artists, including:

• Art & History Companion Guide: A fantastic resource for exploring ancient art, complete with lessons and activities that tie history into your art curriculum. The first in this series is The Ancients.

Our products are crafted with care to nurture your child’s artistic skills and make learning about art an adventure. Whether you’re looking to expand your homeschool curriculum or just want some fun new tools to inspire creativity, The Apprentice Art Studio has great resources to help you begin your artistic journey with your child

So, there you have it—a list of delightful books and resources to kickstart your child’s artistic journey. Happy reading and even happier creating!