Best Art Books

The Story of Art

by EH Gombrich, Leonie Gombrich (Contribution by)

Since it was first published in 1950, E. H. Gombrich's The Story of Art has been admired by readers of all backgrounds for the clarity of its writing and the wisdom of its author. This new compact edition brings a cornerstone of art history into a new age.

Books About Art

Shop the best selection of art books at Barnes & Noble stores and online, where you’ll find books about painting, architecture and photography all in one store. From visually stunning art coffee table books to the best books for artists, there are so many good art books to buy.

If you’re looking to spruce up your coffee table, you’ll find decorative art books spanning from Accidentally Wes Anderson to The Art of Demon Slayer to Barbie™: The World Tour. The Hidden Life of Trees is a visually stunning book, as is National Geographic’s Destinations of a Lifetime.

Artists who want to work on their technique can find instructional books, books to learn art techniques and activities in titles such as Draw Yourself Calm the Color and Light series. Dig into the art of comics with Scott McCloud’s Understanding Comics or pick up one of any number of activity books that teach a new style of art, such as Essence of Watercolour or Painting in Acrylics.

There are also plenty of books by and about famous artists, like Georgia O'Keeffe: To See Takes Time and The Art of Ruth E. Carter. Find fascinating stories centered around art, like The Art Thief and The Story of Art Without Men, or revel in the artistry of visual masterminds like Hayao Miyazaki.

Books about art not only captivate artists but provide us with a much-needed break from our mundane daily tasks. Fine art is an incredible medium that not only grants us the chance to escape but teaches us about the beauty and magic of stillness. Whether you’re into art history, fashion and design, travel photography, or you’re a lover of European art, browse our artbook selection to find books that inspire you.

10 Best Art Books for Artists to Read

Back in Fashion by WWD
Palace Costume by Mimi Haddon
Gender Violence, Art , and the Viewer by Ellen C. Caldwell
The Museum by Samuel J. Redman
The Dream Colony by Walter Hopps
That Still Moment by Edwin Denby
What Comes After Farce? By Hal Foster
The Last Caravaggio by Francesca Whitlum-Cooper
Monet by Jackie Wullschläger
Taylor Swift Style by Sarah Chapelle

Art, Architecture, Fashion & Photography Books

Discover the best art books about painting, architecture, fashion, photography, and books for artists.

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Best New Art & Photography Books

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The Story of Art

Renaissance Art

Art of the Americas

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