Beyond creating art, there are so many ways to help kids develop an appreciation for art discovery, artists, and the gift of creative thinking. As a kid (and throughout my adulthood) reading about art was such a fun way to explore creative concepts.
During a recent trip to the library, I took a walk through the children’s section to look for some art-themed picture books, and my mind was totally blown by all the new talent and wonderful reading options.
For the last month, I’ve been researching and reading to compile an ongoing collection of some of my very favorite art-themed picture and board books for all ages. I’ve organized my top picks into a few general categories so whether you’re hunting for a specific theme, lesson reference, or gift, they’ll be easy to sort through.
You can easily jump to the following art-themed picture book sections with one click
So many of the books in this collection are favorites of mine to give as a baby shower or birthday present. Do you write inscriptions in books you’re gifting? My family always did, so picking out an artistic picture book and handwriting a personal message has always felt like such a simple way to give a meaningful gift.
Some of these picture books are newly published rarities, and others are contemporary classics, but all will be a great introduction to modern creative ideas and inspire young artists to create!
Pair these picture books with our free printable kids’ art challenge for easy art-themed afternoons and lesson planning!
Picture Books with General Art Themes
Another by Christian Robinson
This vibrant wordless picture book uses simple lessons in perspective to introduce kids to one of the most fundamental building blocks of art and creative thinking – imagination. Robinson’s unique style and rich palette make this an instant classic.
My Museum by Joanne Liu
Art is everywhere! Follow a young boy’s discoveries at the museum as he finds art in unconventional and unexpected places. The stylish illustrations feel like a trip to the Met!
The Forest by Riccardo Bozzi
Admittedly, art isn’t the main subject of this gorgeous book, but Bozzi’s painterly illustrations are so luscious I couldn’t bear to leave it out. Each page provides a wonderful visual introduction to handmade art, illustration, and mixed media processes while telling a lovely story of adventure.
Let’s Paint by Gabriel Alborozo
This expressive celebration of art will leave you and your kiddo with a big smile on your face, ready to tackle a new art piece or learn more about some of the artists hinted at throughout the book.
Dog Loves Drawing by Louise Yates
This is my favorite book to gift with a sketchbook and pencil set! This sweet story is the best way to inspire a day of doodling fun.
Linus the Little Yellow Pencil by Scott Magoon
A darling book about a pencil that has lost confidence in his ability to draw (because even young artists can experience the frustration of an artistic block).
Art’s Supplies by Chris Tougas
Wild and wonderful illustrations, hilariously dotted with art puns – what’s not to love?? A great choice to pair with a mixed-media art project!
Perfect by Max Amato
A brilliantly written picture book about the joy of art collaboration. The style and humor are so universally appealing that this will be an instant favorite for anyone.
Draw by Raúl Colón
This gorgeous wordless picture book perfectly illustrates the idea that art can open your world to travel, adventure, and excitement!
The Art of Miss Chew by Patricia Polacco
A story for anyone who’s had a memorable, life-changing teacher. This poignant autobiographical tale serves as a reminder to encourage a child’s talents, taking the time to watch and work through learning challenges. The perfect book for art teachers and students to read together.
Chalk by Bill Thomson
Another clever wordless story that begins with a found box of chalk and ends with a lesson in the power of imagination. The illustrations are SO stunning – even if wordless picture books aren’t your favorite – I guarantee you’ll find something to love in this one.
Art & Max by David Wiesner
What is art, anyway? If the details in these dynamic illustrations don’t pull your kiddo in, the fun story of a beginner artist coming into his own and accepting his own unique style definitely will!
Ish by Peter H. Reynolds
An extra special story of finding one’s artistic style, and accepting imperfection to grow a unique creative voice. This one will resonate strongly with young sketchers and doodlers who like to imitate their favorites!
Hey, Wall: A Story of Art and Community by Susan Verde
This book checked all of my “favorite kind of children’s book” boxes. An abandoned wall adopted by a young artist turns into a source of peace, mindfulness, and community. Timeless messages about the power of shared public art space in this one!
Beautiful Oops by Barney Saltzberg
An absolute classic, that you most likely have either heard of or seen around at least once. And rightly so, as the important parable it teaches is that it’s okay to make a mistake.
Maybe Something Beautiful: How Art Transformed a Neighborhood by F. Isabel Campoy
Tells the story of an actual urban art trail in San Diego, California (one of my former homes!). The warm colors and fun style are positively eaten up by little eyes!
The Museum by Susan Verde
Do you remember your first trip to the museum? This is a great book to read before a trip to an art show, gallery, fair, or (obviously) museum.
Emma by Wendy Kesselman
A wonderful reminder that no one is ever too old to realize their artistic dreams. This touching story was a favorite of mine growing up!
The Pencil by Allan Ahlberg
An amazing adventure begins with the gift of a pencil! The tale of this imaginative (and suspenseful) journey suggests art is a key to other worlds…
The Art Lesson by Tomie DePaola
Oh, how I adored Tomie DePaolo’s stories and illustrations as a kid – still do in fact! This sweet autobiography tells the tale of Tomie himself – what an inspiration!
Art by Patrick McDonnell
Fun rhymes and playful swirls tell the story of Art and his Jackson Pollock-inspired dreams. A perennial favorite for readers from Pre-K to early Elementary!
The Line by Paula Bossio
The many possibilities of one little line! This simple story is a wonderfully imagination-expanding journey.
Ellie by Mike Wu
A beautifully sweet story featuring a lovable little “Ellie” who saves the day with a little art and a lot of colors. Perfect for younger readers.
The Artist Who Painted a Blue Horse by Eric Carle
You don’t have to look far to find SCORES of creative Eric Carle-inspired art project ideas for kids. This collection of animal art by Carle himself provides endless inspiration for young artists – along with the reminder to stay true to your own creative self.
Be a Maker by Katey Howes
This sweet book celebrates the millions of things to make – through rhyming verse and colorful, kid-pleasing illustrations.
Not a Box by Antoinette Portis
How many things can a cardboard box become? Let your imagination run away with you as you explore a “not a box” together!
I Ain’t Gonna Paint No More! by Karen Beaumont
Set to the tune “Ain’t Gonna Rain No More” this sing-a-long story explores the joy of painting….everything! 😉
I Am an Artist by Marta Altes
I love this quirky book for younger kiddos! Preschoolers especially seem to enjoy laughing along with this crazy little creator.
Picture Books Exploring Famous Artists
Action Jackson by Jan Greenberg
This vibrant picture book invites kids into the world of Jackson Pollock, capturing the energy and creativity of his famous drip paintings. Young readers will be inspired by the story of how Pollock turned his barn into an art studio and let his imagination run wild.
The Cat and the Bird: A Children’s Book Inspired by Paul Klee by Geraldine Elschner
Inspired by Paul Klee’s art, this poetic tale follows a caged cat longing for freedom. The dreamy illustrations mirror Klee’s whimsical style, making it a perfect introduction to the artist’s unique perspective.
The Scraps Book: Notes From a Colorful Life by Lois Ehlert
This delightful memoir offers a peek into Lois Ehlert’s creative process, inspiring kids to embrace their own artistic journeys. With bright collages and personal anecdotes, it’s a celebration of imagination and resourcefulness.
It Jes’ Happened: When Bill Traylor Started to Draw by Don Tate
This touching story of self-taught artist Bill Traylor reveals how he began creating art in his seventies, transforming memories of his life into amazing illustrations. A great reminder that it’s never too late to start creating.
My Hands Sing the Blues: Romare Bearden’s Childhood Journey by Jeanne Walker Harvey
A rhythmic and heartfelt tribute to Romare Bearden’s collage art, this book explores how the patchwork of his life experiences influenced his iconic works.
Jake Makes a World: Jacob Lawrence, A Young Artist in Harlem by Sharifa Rhodes-Pitts
Discover the incredible art of the Harlem Renaissance through the eyes of a young Jacob Lawrence as he finds beauty and inspiration in his bustling community. Kids will find so much to love in this engaging introduction to one of America’s great storytellers.
Maya Lin: Artist-Architect of Light and Lines by Jeanne Walker Harvey
Maya Lin’s creative genius shines in this beautifully illustrated story about the artist behind the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. It’s an inspiring read for budding architects and dreamers.
The World Is Not a Rectangle: A Portrait of Architect Zaha Hadid by Jeanette Winter
Explore the groundbreaking designs of Zaha Hadid, whose unconventional vision changed the world of architecture.
Pocket Full of Colors: The Magical World of Mary Blair, Disney Artist Extraordinaire by Amy Guglielmo
Celebrate Mary Blair’s colorful imagination and how she brought her unique style to beloved Disney classics like Alice in Wonderland and rides like It’s a Small World. A colorful read-aloud as magical as her art!
A Splash of Red: The Life and Art of Horace Pippin by Jen Bryant
Horace Pippin overcame incredible challenges to become an artist, and this inspiring story celebrates his perseverance (and love of bold colors – my favorites too!)
The Bluest of Blues: Anna Atkins and the First Book of Photographs by Fiona Robinson
A lovely visual celebration in blue, this biography tells the story of Anna Atkins, a trailblazer who combined science and art to create the first book of cyanotype photographs.
Dancing Through Fields of Color: The Story of Helen Frankenthaler by Elizabeth Brown
Helen Frankenthaler’s journey as a pioneer of abstract art is brought to life with vivid illustrations and lyrical text, perfect for young artists.
Linnea in Monet’s Garden by Christina Björk
Travel to Claude Monet’s garden with Linnea in this charming tale that combines art, history, and a touch of wanderlust.
Draw What You See: The Life and Art of Benny Andrews by Kathleen Benson
A sweet tribute to Benny Andrews, this story highlights his dedication to capturing the struggles and triumphs of ordinary people in his artwork.
The Great Wave: A Children’s Book Inspired by Hokusai by Veronique Massenot
A tale that captures the spirit of Hokusai’s iconic The Great Wave, introducing children to the beauty and power of Japanese art.
Gordon Parks: How the Photographer Captured Black and White America by Carole Boston Weatherford
Discover the inspiring story of Gordon Parks, a trailblazing photographer who used his lens to tell the stories of Black Americans during the civil rights era.
Magic Trash: A Story of Tyree Guyton and His Art by J. H. Shapiro
This uplifting story highlights Tyree Guyton’s transformation of a struggling Detroit neighborhood into a vibrant outdoor art space, showing how art can spark hope and renewal in communities.
Art From Her Heart: Folk Artist Clementine Hunter by Kathy Whitehead
Read about the life of Clementine Hunter, a self-taught artist who painted her vivid memories of plantation life, offering an authentic and heartfelt perspective on history.
Yayoi Kusama: From Here to Infinity! by Sarah Suzuki
This dazzling picture book introduces the life and work of Yayoi Kusama, whose polka-dot-filled art invites kids to embrace their creativity and see the infinite possibilities of imagination.
The Sleeping Gypsy by Mordicai Gerstein
Inspired by Henri Rousseau’s mysterious painting, this magical story weaves an imaginative tale of a dreamlike journey under the moonlight.
Georgia’s Bones by Jen Bryant
Georgia O’Keeffe’s connection to the natural world comes alive in this lyrical exploration of her artistic process, inspiring kids to find beauty in the shapes and textures of their surroundings.
Dorothea Lange: The Photographer Who Found the Faces of the Depression by Carole Boston Weatherford
This poignant book introduces children to Dorothea Lange’s powerful photographs, showing how her lens captured the resilience of everyday people during the Great Depression.
Cloth Lullaby: The Woven Life of Louise Bourgeois by Amy Novesky
Learn about the life of Louise Bourgeois, whose memories of her childhood inspired her incredible sculptures. This book beautifully combines storytelling with fabric-inspired illustrations.
A Life Made by Hand: The Story of Ruth Asawa by Andrea D’Aquino
Ruth Asawa’s intricate wire sculptures take center stage in this inspiring story, showing kids how everyday materials can be transformed into extraordinary art.
The Noisy Paint Box: The Colors and Sounds of Kandinsky’s Abstract Art by Barb Rosenstock
This Caldecott Honor book tells the story of how Vasily Kandinsky heard music in colors, inspiring his abstract masterpieces. Kids will love the sensory exploration of art and sound.
Through the Window: Views of Marc Chagall’s Life and Art by Barb Rosenstock
Take a dreamy journey through the life of Marc Chagall, whose art blended vibrant colors, floating figures, and whimsical storytelling.
Radiant Child: The Story of Young Artist Jean-Michel Basquiat by Javaka Steptoe
Winner of the Caldecott Medal and Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award for its illustrations, this book captures Jean-Michel Basquiat’s bold and expressive style, showing how he turned his passion into a voice for his community.
Vincent Can’t Sleep: Van Gogh Paints the Night Sky by Barb Rosenstock
This poetic story follows Vincent van Gogh as he finds inspiration in the quiet beauty of the night, giving kids a glimpse into the artist’s imaginative world.
Frida Kahlo and Her Animalitos by Monica Brown
This charming book explores Frida Kahlo’s deep love for animals and how they influenced her one-of-a-kind surrealist artwork.
Stitchin’ and Pullin’: A Gee’s Bend Quilt by Patricia McKissack
Celebrate the tradition of quilt-making in Gee’s Bend, Alabama! This tells the story of a group of important female artists and craftswomen and shows how the “everyday” art people make can serve to preserve culture and history.
Becoming Vanessa by Vanessa Brantley-Newton
This sweet and empowering story encourages kids to embrace what makes them unique, inspired by the wonderfully talented artistry of the author herself.
Sonia Delaunay: A Life of Color by Cara Manes
Introduce kids to Sonia Delaunay’s groundbreaking use of color and geometric shapes, showing how her art brought energy and movement to everyday life.
Me and Uncle Romie: A Story Inspired by the Life and Art of Romare Beardon by Claire Hartfield
This story blends family, culture, and art as a young boy discovers the magic of storytelling through Romare Bearden’s iconic collages.
The Girl Who Drew Butterflies: How Maria Merian’s Art Changed Science by Joyce Sidman
Maria Merian’s scientific illustrations come to life in this fascinating story of a young girl whose curiosity about insects and nature transformed both art and science.
The Crayon Man: The True Story of the Invention of Crayola Crayons by Natascha Biebow
Maria Merian’s scientific illustrations come to life in this fascinating story of a young girl whose curiosity about insects and nature transformed both art and science.
Sandy’s Circus: A Story About Alexander Calder by Sandra Lee Stone
This delightful tale brings Alexander Calder’s kinetic sculptures to life, sharing the joy and whimsy of his innovative art.
A Bird or Two: A Story about Henri Matisse by Bijou Le Tord
Henri Matisse’s love of color and simplicity shines in this gentle story that captures his playful, creative spirit.
The Iridescence of Birds: A Book About Henri Matisse by Patricia MacLachlan
A poetic look at Matisse’s childhood, this book invites kids to see how the artist’s love of light and color shaped his incredible works.
Henri’s Scissors by Jeanette Winter
Discover how Henri Matisse created some of his most famous works during his later years using only paper, scissors, and a vibrant imagination.
Matisse’s Garden by Samantha Friedman
Explore the creation of Matisse’s famous cut-outs in this lushly illustrated book that shows how even simple materials can inspire masterpieces.
Keith Haring: The Boy Who Just Kept Drawing by Kay Haring
This inspiring story about Keith Haring, written by his sister, shares how he turned his passion for drawing into a worldwide legacy of public art, creativity, and kindness.
If Picasso Painted a Snowman by Amy Newbold
This playful book imagines how famous artists like Picasso, Monet, and Van Gogh might paint a snowman, introducing kids to a variety of artistic styles in a fun and accessible way.
Miró’s Magic Animals by Antony Penrose
Inspired by the whimsical work of Joan Miró, this delightful book invites young readers into a magical world of bold colors and fantastical creatures.
Henri Matisse: Drawing with Scissors by Jane O’Connor
A child-friendly biography of Henri Matisse that explores how his love of bold shapes and vibrant colors led to his iconic paper cut-out art.
Artists and Their Pets: True Stories of Famous Artists and Their Animal Friends by Susie Hodge
This charming collection of stories shows how artists like Frida Kahlo and Pablo Picasso were inspired by their beloved pets, offering a unique glimpse into their lives and creative processes.
The Little Paintbrush by Bjørn F. Rørvik
This imaginative tale follows a magical paintbrush that brings color and creativity wherever it goes, encouraging children to dream big and create their own masterpieces (with a fun intro to Edvard Munch!).
A-Z Great Modern Artists by Andy Tuohy
A fun introduction to modern art, this book features short profiles and dynamic illustrations of iconic artists, perfect for sparking curiosity in young readers.
We’re All Works of Art by Mark Sperring
This beautifully inclusive book celebrates the uniqueness of every individual, using art as a metaphor to show that we are all masterpieces in our own way.
Picture Books Exploring Color, Pattern, and Shape
Zoom: An Epic Journey Through Circles by Viction-Viction
This visually stunning book takes kids on a journey through vibrant circular designs, offering endless opportunities for discovery and sparking curiosity about the shapes that surround us.
Swatch: The Girl Who Loved Color by Julia Denos
Meet Swatch, a fearless girl who can tame and collect colors in this whimsical tale that celebrates creativity and the wild magic of art.
Pomelo Explores Color by Ramona Badescu
Follow along with adorable Pomelo, an endearing little elephant, as he embarks on a playful and poetic exploration of color, perfect for sparking wonder in young readers.
Perfect Square by Michael Hall
In this imaginative story, a simple square transforms into endless shapes and creations, encouraging kids to see the creative possibilities in the everyday.
Wild About Shapes by Jeremie Fischer
This clever book uses transparent pages to create surprising shape transformations, making it a hands-on delight for curious little minds.
The Colour Thief by Gabriel Alborozo
A sweet and tender tale about a mischievous alien who learns that colors are best shared, this story is perfect for teaching kindness and the beauty of diversity.
Square by Mac Barnett
Part of the Shape Trilogy, this humorous and thought-provoking story about a square trying to create art is a fun way to spark conversations about creativity and effort.
Green is a Chile Pepper: A Book of Colors by Roseanne Greenfield Thong
Celebrate Hispanic culture while learning colors in this lively rhyming book filled with vibrant imagery and festive details.
What Can I Be by Ann Rand
This timeless classic invites kids to explore shapes in bold, modern designs, sparking their imagination as they envision what these shapes could become.
Picasso Loves Shapes by Judiee Lee
Introduce kids to the art of Pablo Picasso in this delightful story that highlights his playful use of shapes in his masterpieces.
Little Blue and Little Yellow by Leo Lionni
This heartwarming tale of two friends who mix together and transform explores friendship and color theory in the simplest, most charming way.
Lots of Dots by Craig Frazier
Celebrate the joy of dots in this energetic and imaginative book, perfect for teaching little ones about patterns, shapes, and design.
The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds
A beloved story about creativity and self-expression, this book inspires kids to embrace their artistic potential with a simple, empowering message.
Follow the Line by Laura Ljungkvist
This interactive journey follows a single line through imaginative scenes, encouraging kids to explore the endless possibilities of design.
Blue vs. Yellow by Tom Sullivan
A playful and witty tale about two colors vying for dominance, this story encourages kids to think about collaboration and creativity.
Mouse Paint by Ellen Stoll Walsh
This classic introduces primary colors and color mixing through the charming antics of three curious mice, making it a must-read for little artists.
Picture Books Exploring Emotion Through Art
Red by Michael Hall
This clever and heartfelt story about a crayon struggling to express its true self is a touching way to explore identity and self-acceptance with kids.
My Color is Rainbow by Agnes Hsu
Follow a little unicorn as it discovers the beauty of every color and learns to embrace all its emotions in this uplifting and colorful tale.
Be Still, Life by Ohara Hale
A serene and poetic exploration of mindfulness, this book uses simple illustrations to encourage kids to find joy and calm in the world around them.
I Feel Teal by Lauren Rille
This beautifully illustrated book associates colors with emotions, making it a wonderful way to help young readers recognize and express their feelings.
Drawn Together by Minh Lê
A touching story about a boy and his grandfather who bridge their language gap through art, showing how creativity can connect generations.
Emily’s Blue Period by Cathleen Daly
Emily navigates her parents’ divorce and finds solace in creating art, offering a sensitive and relatable story for children experiencing big emotions.
The Color Monster: A Pop-Up Book of Feelings by Anna Llenas
This engaging pop-up book helps kids identify and understand their emotions through vibrant colors and fun interactive elements.
Blue by Laura Vaccaro Seeger
This visually stunning exploration of the color blue takes readers on a poignant journey through the spectrum of emotions associated with the hue.
Interactive Art Workbooks For Kids
Art Play by Marion Deuchars
Packed with fun and open-ended activities, this workbook encourages kids to experiment with different art techniques and unleash their creativity.
Herve Tullet: The Big Book of Art by Herve Tullet
A playful and interactive art book that invites kids to explore shapes, lines, and colors in a tactile and imaginative way.
Mix it Up by Herve Tullet
This dynamic and interactive book lets kids “mix” colors with their hands, turning reading into a magical and hands-on art experience.
Draw Paint Print like the Great Artists by Marion Deuchars
This comprehensive workbook introduces kids to the techniques of famous artists while encouraging them to create their own masterpieces.
Look! What Do You See?: An Art Puzzle Book of American and Chinese Songs by Xu Bing
This unique book combines puzzles and art, using calligraphy-inspired designs to engage kids in a cross-cultural exploration of music and visual art.
Photo Finish by Pascale Estellon
This interactive book encourages kids to experiment with composition, framing, and creativity using parts of photos as drawing prompts.
The Game of Sculpture by Herve Tullet
This interactive workbook turns art into play as kids build 3D sculptures from simple shapes, exploring form and structure.
Wreck This Journal by Keri Smith
This wildly creative journal encourages kids to break the rules of art, letting them tear, paint, and experiment their way to self-expression.
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