16 books about art and artists to inspire your child’s creativity
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I’ve always believed that creativity is something kids are born with: it’s in the way they see the world, the way they experiment, the way they turn a cardboard box into a rocket ship.
But sometimes, they need a little inspiration to remind them just how much they can create.
That’s why I love filling our bookshelves with stories about artists and the incredible ways they brought their ideas to life.
Whether it’s a painter who saw music in colors, a Disney artist who dared to dream in bold shades, or a little girl who learns that art doesn’t have to be perfect to be beautiful, these books show kids that creativity comes in so many forms.
This month, I’ve put together a list of books that celebrate art, imagination, and the magic of making something uniquely your own.
I hope they bring as much joy and inspiration to your family as they have to ours!
1 – The Noisy Paint Box: The Colors and Sounds of Kandinsky’s Abstract Art (by Barb Rosenstock) | 4-8 years
This beautifully written book tells the story of Wassily Kandinsky, a young boy who could hear colors and see music.
His art didn’t follow the rules, but that’s exactly what made it special.
2 – When I Draw a Panda (by Amy June Bates) | 4-8 years
This sweet story follows a young girl who tries to draw a perfect circle but ends up creating a panda instead.
With charming illustrations and a gentle message, it’s a great reminder that art isn’t about perfection – it’s about imagination, confidence, and having fun.
3 – Mary Blair’s Unique Flair: The Girl Who Became One of the Disney Legends (by Amy Novesky) | 6-8 years
Mary Blair’s bright, bold artwork shaped some of Disney’s most beloved films, from Alice in Wonderland to Cinderella.
This book brings her story to life, showing kids how her creativity and courage helped her break barriers in the art world.
4 – Keith Haring: The Boy Who Just Kept Drawing (by Kay Haring) | 5-8 years
Keith Haring believed that art was for everyone, and this book (written by his sister) tells the story of how he shared his vibrant, playful artwork with the world.
5 – My Name Is Georgia: A Portrait by Jeanette Winter (by Jeanette Winter) | 4-7 years
Georgia O’Keeffe saw the world in bold colors and big shapes, and she wasn’t afraid to paint differently than everyone else.
This beautifully illustrated book introduces young readers to her art and her unique way of seeing the world.
6 – Henri’s Scissors (by Jeanette Winter) | 4-7 years
Henri Matisse was an incredible painter, but when he could no longer paint, he didn’t stop creating – he picked up scissors instead!
This inspiring story shows kids that creativity has no limits, and sometimes, a challenge can lead to something new and beautiful.
7 – Pocket Full of Colors: The Magical World of Mary Blair, Disney Artist Extraordinaire (by Amy Guglielmo and Jacqueline Tourville) | 4-8 years
Mary Blair didn’t just see the world in color – she filled it with color!
This vibrant book celebrates her journey as a Disney artist, encouraging kids to embrace their creativity and see beauty everywhere.
8 – The World Needs Who You Were Made to Be (by Joanna Gaines) | 4-7 years
This uplifting book reminds kids that everyone brings something special to the world.
Through a story about children building hot-air balloons, it celebrates creativity, teamwork, and the idea that being different is a strength.
9 – Be a Maker (by Katey Howes) | 4-9 years
This playful book encourages kids to see themselves as creators in everyday life.
From building and painting to problem-solving and inventing, it’s a fun way to inspire curiosity and hands-on learning.
10 – Katie: Katie and the Mona Lisa (by James Mayhew) | 4-6 years
Katie steps into the world of The Mona Lisa and goes on an exciting adventure through famous Renaissance paintings.
This fun and imaginative introduction to classic art is a lovely way to bring famous masterpieces to life.
11 – How to Spot an Artist: This Might Get Messy (by Danielle Krysa) | 4-8 years
This book is all about encouraging kids to embrace their creativity without worrying about being perfect.
It’s a great pick for any child who loves to create but sometimes feels stuck or unsure about their art.
More books about art and artists
12 – Vincent’s Colors (by Vincent van Gogh) | 4-7 years
This unique book combines Van Gogh’s paintings with his own words, helping kids see art through the artist’s eyes.
It’s a simple yet beautiful way to introduce young readers to one of the world’s most famous painters.
13 – ABCs of Art (by Sabrina Hahn) | 3-6 years
A fun and engaging way to introduce kids to famous artworks, this book takes little readers on an A-to-Z journey through the world of art, making it both educational and inspiring.
14 – Boxitects (by Kim Smith) | 3-7 years
This creative story follows a little girl who loves building with cardboard.
When she enters a design competition, she learns that collaboration can lead to the most amazing ideas.
15 – Yayoi Kusama Covered Everything in Dots and Wasn’t Sorry (by Fausto Gilberti) | 4-7 years
Yayoi Kusama’s bright, bold, polka-dot-filled world comes to life in this playful book.
It’s a great introduction to a groundbreaking artist who saw art in everything and wasn’t afraid to do things her own way.
16 – The Fantastic Jungles of Henri Rousseau (by Michelle Markel) | 5-9 years
Henri Rousseau was a self-taught artist who never gave up on his dream of painting jungles, even when no one believed in him.
This beautifully written story is an inspiring lesson in perseverance, creativity, and following your passion.
Whether your child loves to draw, paint, build, or just dream up big ideas, these stories are a reminder that art is everywhere and that their imagination is one of the most powerful tools they have.
I hope these books bring a little extra creativity and inspiration into your days!