Best Painting Books of 2025

Conservation of Easel Paintings, Second Edition is a comprehensive text that covers the history, philosophy, and methods of treating easel paintings, making it an indispensable reference for practicing conservators and an essential resource for students taking conservation courses worldwide. The book includes 49 chapters written by over 90 respected authors from around the world, covering technical art history, artists' materials, and scientific methods of examination and documentation. The book also covers new techniques of examination, innovative methods for cleaning modern and contemporary paintings, and insights into modern oil paints. Overall, this updated edition is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the conservation of easel paintings.

The book "Mbuti Design: Paintings by Pygmy Women of the Ituri Forest" explores the little-known world of barkcloth drawings and paintings made by the Mbuti women of northeastern Zaire. The book delves into the themes and aesthetics of these drawings and their significance in reflecting the Mbuti people's way of life. The wider influence of African "forager" art forms on contemporary world art is also discussed. This book is a fascinating read for anyone interested in the art and culture of hunter-gatherer societies.

Painting and Experience in Fifteenth-Century Italy is a scholarly volume by Michael Baxandall that serves as an introduction to Italian painting of the early Renaissance and as a guide to interpreting social history through pictorial style. Baxandall examines how the visual skills and habits of daily life are reflected in the style of painting of any given society. The book includes discussions of various painters, such as Botticelli and Masaccio, and defines sixteen concepts used by a contemporary critic of painting. The second edition includes an updated bibliography and an appendix that lists the original Latin and Italian texts referred to throughout the book. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the material culture of the Renaissance.

The book "On Not Being Able to Paint" by Marion Milner explores the nature of creativity and the obstacles that prevent it. The author focuses on her own experiences with drawing and painting to analyze the common and frustrating situation of being unable to create. The new edition includes an introduction by Janet Sayers and is relevant to readers interested in psychoanalysis, education, and the creative process. The book highlights the value of the creative process as a tool for achieving self-awareness and engagement with life. Overall, this is a thought-provoking read for anyone interested in the interplay of inner and outer reality in art and everyday life.

Interior Design Illustrated: Marker and Watercolor Techniques is a comprehensive guide that helps students develop powerful marketing tools by teaching them how to visualize interior space, perspective, and details with markers and watercolors. The step-by-step approach, with simple, uncomplicated illustrations and instructions, progresses from beginner to intermediate skill levels. The text and numerous illustrations reinforce each other, making the lessons easily accessible to visual learners. The book covers architectural features, wall and floor finishes, furniture, and design enhancements. Overall, this book is an excellent resource for interior design students and professionals looking to improve their hand-rendering skills.

This book, titled "Dutch and Flemish Flower Pieces: Paintings, Drawings and Prints Up to the Nineteenth Century," is a comprehensive overview of all Dutch and Flemish artists up to the nineteenth century who created flower pieces, whether through paintings, drawings, or prints. Written by Sam Segal, who was widely regarded as an expert on still lifes, and Klara Alen, an independent scholar and archival researcher at Still Life Studies, this richly illustrated book is a must-read for anyone interested in the field of Dutch and Flemish still life painting. The book is published by Brill as part of their art history books collection.

The Varnish and the Glaze: Painting Splendor with Oil, 1100–1500 is a fascinating exploration of the history of oil painting techniques used in medieval and fifteenth-century art. Marjolijn Bol delves into the evolution of varnishing and glazing, and how these methods were used to create the illusion of precious materials like gold, gems, and stained glass. Bol's extensive research and use of historical recipes provide insight into the art of material mimesis and the influence it had on natural philosophers and historians. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of art and the science behind its materials.

Pictures and Tears by James Elkins is a thought-provoking book that explores the emotional impact of art on individuals. The author provides a fascinating history of how various paintings have moved people to tears throughout time. Elkins also reflects on the detachment that many people feel towards art in the present day. The book is a rare and invaluable treasure for art lovers, with an 8-page color insert. Elkins boldly and rightly decries the declining value society places on heartfelt reactions to art and offers a powerful reminder of the aesthetic power of tears.

Painting for Performance is an excellent guide for beginners who want to learn about painting for set design. The author, Sean OSkea, a professor of design, provides step-by-step instructions for painting different surfaces to look great on stage. The book covers everything from the mechanics of paint to its implementation in set design. OSkea’s extensive experience as a scenic designer and teacher shows in the clarity of his instructions. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in theater direction and production.

This book, titled "The Painting of T'ang Yin", is a richly illustrated volume that delves into the career of T'ang Yin, a sixteenth-century Chinese master painter. The author, Anne De Coursey Clapp, examines T'ang Yin's art and experiences, highlighting the challenges faced by a Chinese painter who was both an elite Confucian scholar and a professional painter. Clapp also explores larger issues of Ming painting raised by T'ang Yin's turbulent career. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in Chinese art and history.