Summer Art Inspirations

Michael Shain
Jun 24
2 min read

Happy Summer from the Fine Arts Council!

As the days grow longer and the pace slows down, summer is the perfect time to dive into some inspiring reading that fuels your creativity and broadens your artistic horizons. Here's a few of the books from my recent reading list to spark your imagination and enrich your artistic journey :

How Music Works by David Byrne
Written by the legendary Talking Heads founder, this book offers a fascinating exploration of music from a true creative visionary. Byrne’s insights into how music shapes and is shaped by culture, technology, and human connection are both profound and accessible.
The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin
Legendary music producer Rick Rubin—who’s worked with everyone from the Red Hot Chili Peppers to Johnny Cash—shares his philosophy on creativity as a way of life. This thoughtful book is a guide for artists of all kinds seeking to nurture their creative spirit.
What Art Does: An Unfinished Theory by Brian Eno and Bette Adriaanse
Dive deep into the nature and impact of art with this collaborative work by musician and artist Brian Eno and writer Bette Adriaanse. Their unique perspectives invite readers to rethink how art influences us and the world around us.
Steal Like an Artist: 10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative by Austin Kleon
A modern classic for creatives, Kleon’s book offers practical advice on how to embrace influence, remix ideas, and cultivate originality in your work.
The Art of Noticing: 131 Ways to Spark Creativity, Find Inspiration, and Discover Joy in the Everyday by Rob Walker
Rob Walker’s insightful guide encourages us to pay closer attention to the small, often overlooked details that surround us daily. His blog, The Art of Noticing, complements the book beautifully by celebrating the beauty in both the mundane and the extraordinary.