As an artist, people often ask me what sort of books I read, what art I look at, and where do I find inspiration? Below are a selection of books I recommend to anyone asking me these sort of questions. I already own most of these or they are ones that I have given as gifts. I've selected a few larger publications like monographs and retrospectives because I find they are often more interesting than exhibition guides. I've selected these also because sometimes an artist's work is best understood when viewed as a complete body of work. I've tried to add in a few surprises and some affordable choices as well. I have selected only one book per artist to make sure they were a "must have." Enjoy.
 

Andy Warhol -

What can I say about this pop icon that hasn't been already said? His works continue to command more attention now than when they were first introduced. His work changed the face of the artistic landscape and his methods were perfectly aligned with his generation. I feel his prints are a perfect example to have because they are what he did best. Both his paintings and his sculptures had use of the screen print process. This speaks volumes about his thinking as a printmaker.

Pablo Picasso -

His genius and shadow as an artist is beyond measure. I chose this book because if you want to study and understand Picasso, you will want to have a large volume of well-made reproductions that show a range of styles and ideas that defined modern art. If you are not familiar with his works, but for some reason they catch your attention, I definitely recommend reading about his life and contributions to art history. His works will take you a lifetime to decipher and it's well worth it.

Arshile Gorky -

A great overview of Gorky's work and a glimpse of his life are sure to get you hooked into wanting to see more and probably read one of the numerous books written about his "artist-iconic" life. His works are unbelievable in person and require hours of meditation to decipher. His works have inspired me like no other.

Willem De Kooning -

Learning of De Kooning's life and accomplishments as an artist is awe inspiring. Here was an artist who's often figurative-based works stretch the boundaries of what you can do with paint. He went from humble immigrant to world famous artist in his lifetime. I believe he is a cornerstone to any modern art collection. This is a very fine book for those interested in abstraction but don't know where to start or for those who collect his numerous monologues but want to have a larger selection.

Keith Haring -

I chose Keith because of his uniqueness and lively expressions. His vividimagination made him an art star of an entire decade the world over. This well-made collection of works shows the immense variations Haring produced during his all too short lifetime.

David Graham -

Sometimes photography can just blow you away with all it's possibilities. So many choices but always that looming question of what to photograph. Surprising in their selection and spectaactular in their craftsmanship, the works of David Graham are sure to live on long after we're all gone.

Paula Rego -

I love this book. Her works will definitely put a spell on you and make you want to examine every line, shape, texture, and story for hours. Her technique is extremely fine and brings her works to life like no other artist can. This will give any art library a much-needed burst of spice and uniqueness.

Hockney is a modern master. This etching collection is magnificent and really shows his grace, ability, and variety.

I believe that his most revealing works are in his drawings. A freshness of line is apparent in all he drew.

Jasper Johns -

If your starting a collection, this is a great book. As one of the more affordable Jasper Johns books, this publication gives a very good overview to his methods and role in shaping contemporary art. Be forewarned that his work is often very difficult to understand. If your up to the challenge, you will be rewarded with alternative perspectives.

Alexander Calder -

This artist was magnificent. Hands down, Calder's work probably inspired more people to produce art than one could imagine. He really shines in his later work once the art world took a liking to him and this book shows it. His large-scale works are jaw dropping and I believe everybody should experience the real thing at least once. This book has a little bit of everything and shows his visionary imagination at its fullest.

Richard Diebenkorn -

This book is a bargain at twice the price. This book is such a good read as well because is shows how pure abstraction can come from formal landscapes, portraits, and still lifes.

Stanley William Hayter -

Hayter has yet to get the full exposure due to him. His works not only opened up a whole new phase of art, but most certainly his advances in the art of printmaking will never be matched. This is a crown jewel for anyone with a serious art book collection.