The best art books 2024

Best Art books - DK/Phaidon/Walter Foster Publishing
(Image credit: DK/Phaidon/Walter Foster Publishing)

The best art books provide knowledge, inspiration and tutorials for professional, expert and beginner artists alike. Whether you’re a drawer, painter, illustrator, sculptor or any other type of artist, art books can help further your artistic career, provide inspiration from the greats and improve your artistic skills (even if you struggle to put pencil to paper!).

In this guide, we’ve found the best art books for all your artistic needs, including general art, the best history of art books, and concept art. If you’re interested in any of the titles you see below, click the retailer links to buy directly from the retailer.

With years of art and design writing experience, Creative Bloq and our contributors have read, reviewed and ranked many of the best art books on the market. We’ve compiled all that knowledge into one place (right here!) and have found the best recommendations to help you become a better artist, from old classics to recent publications.

For more inspiration, take a look at the best drawing books and the best illustration books.

The best art books to buy in 2023

Why you can trust Creative Bloq Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

Best art books overall

Best art history books

Best concept art books

Bethan Girdler-Maslen

Beth is the Home Editor at T3, covering style, living and wellness. If it's something that goes in your house, chances are Beth knows about it and has the latest reviews and recommendations.


Having always been passionate about writing, Beth studied English Literature & Journalism at Cardiff University before diving into copywriting and marketing roles. She has written for websites, newspapers and magazines on a variety of topics, from jewellery and culture, to food and telecoms. Her work has been published across numerous sites and publications, including Wedding Ideas Magazine, Health & Wellbeing, The Bristol Post, Fashion & Style Directory, TechRadar and more.