Being a creative professional, I’m always seeking ways to keep my imagination fresh and my mind open. One of the best ways I’ve found to nurture my creativity is through reading. Certain books have become my go-to sources for inspiration and growth, and today, I’m sharing three of my absolute favorites. Whether you’re an illustrator and surface designer like me or involved in another creative field, these books can spark new ideas, challenge your process, and fuel your artistic journey.

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1. Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert

This book has had a profound impact on how I approach creativity and inspiration. It’s filled with insightful advice that encourages you to think differently about what it means to live creatively and how to deal with the fear that often comes with that.

I often revisit this book when I feel stuck or when I need a reminder that creativity is about the process, not just the final product. I especially love the audiobook and enjoy listening to it while I’m drawing. It drowns out my inner critic and any doubts I’m having at that moment. I’ve listened to it dozens of times, and every time I get something out of it.

A Favorite Quote: 

“This, I believe, is the central question upon which all creative living hinges: Do you have the courage to bring forth the treasures that are hidden within you?”

Get Big Magic here.

Get the audiobook here.

2. You Are a Badass by Jen Sincero

This book is another one that is worth revisiting often. In fact, I think I’ll go pull it off my shelf right now because it’s time for a refresh. BRB…

Okay, I’m back. So this book isn’t specifically about being an artist or being creative, but if you want to be inspired and find joy in your life (which is very much connected to creativity) then this book is for you. Jen Sincero has a way of opening your mind to a new way of seeing things that makes you want to take action and go after your biggest goals. And again with this one, the audio version is sooooo good. Jen Sincero reads it and I very much enjoy her. 

A Favorite Quote:
“Really listen to how you speak, and pay attention to what you do, and make a conscious effort to increase your joy in whatever capacity you can. It could be anything, from spending an afternoon with a great friend, to quitting your hateful job to buying a great pair of shoes. It’s about being proactive about creating a life you love instead of meekly living the one you think you’re stuck with. Give yourself the gift of a joyous life while you’re still among the living.”

Get You Are a Badass here.

3. Keep Going by Austin Kleon

This book is an inspiring pep talk conveyed through ten simple rules for how to stay focused, creative and authentic to yourself. Because it’s divided up into ten chapters, it’s super easy to pick up and read, and you can easily revisit one of the chapters without having to reread the whole book. Austin Kleon’s perspectives on life and creativity are refreshing and thought-provoking. I love the way he looks at the world.

One of my biggest takeaways from this book is the importance of a creative process, which we’ve all heard before but it is worth repeating. I have definitely suffered in the past from wanting to have made the art, but not wanting to actually make the art. Meaning, I wanted to be able to look at something that was already done and feel really good about it, and be able to truly feel like I’d accomplished something. But the process wasn’t fun for me for a long time. I eventually figured out that I had to make art for the sake of making it and not worry if I loved it or not. And having a daily practice, even if it meant drawing for only a few minutes, was a big part of that as well. This was a pivotal moment in my creative journey, and I began making more art than ever before. AND my unique creative voice started to emerge which made the process even more enjoyable. More info on that here.

A Favorite Quote:
“The truly prolific artists I know always have that question answered, because they have figured out a daily practice—a repeatable way of working that insulates them from success, failure, and the chaos of the outside world.”

Get Keep Going here.

Final Thoughts

These three books have had a lasting impact on my creativity and my business, and I hope they can inspire you too. Whether you’re looking for ways to break through a creative block or seeking a fresh perspective on how to find joy in your life, these reads are a great place to start.

Have any favorite books that inspire your creativity? I’d love to hear your recommendations! 

Want more book recommendations? Download the full list of my favorite books for art and creativity, as well as a list of my favorite tools and resources, by grabbing the PDF here.