There are some absolutely gorgeous, thought provoking, inspiring books about art out there for kids! Here are some of the best children’s books about art.
These are in alphabetical order, and are generally best for 3-6 year olds.
Disclosure: I am an affiliate of Bookshop.org and I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Most of these books are also available at your local library!
Bob the Artist by Marion Deuchars: We’ve had Bob around since before the kiddo was born, this was one of the first books we ever bought him. And it’s still in the go-to bookshelf. Bob’s ability to get past those meanie animals and find his own inspiration have given us dozens of “aha” moments during the growing up process.
Drawing on Walls: A Story of Keith Haring by Matthew Burgess, illustrated by Josh Cochran: Now, listen, we’ve all had the kiddo-drawing-on-the-walls moment. How amazing would it be to invest in that creativity and have them become the next Keith Haring? (You might also invest in some magic erasers…)
Drawn Together by Minh Lê, illustrated by Dan Santat, is one of our favorite books. Our kiddo asks for it constantly, he calls it the “sketch book” since we long ago lost the dust jacket. When mom (possibly single mom as no dad is mentioned here) drops off her son with grandpa, you can see the deterioration of their relationship until pow! Their two incredible art styles are drawn together.
Frida Kahlo and Her Animalitos by Monica Brown, illustrated by John Parra: Do you know a child who loves animals? This is perfect for them! They will love how the animals inspired Frida and perhaps will create some incredible works of their own.
Henri’s Scissors by Jeanette Winter is a gorgeously illustrated book about Henri Matisse. He gets sick and is in a wheelchair he can no longer paint, but finds a whole new kind of artistic expression. Great for kids who are going through something tough.
Radiant Child: The Story of Young Artist Jean-Michel Basquiat by Javaka Steptoe. A beautiful book about a boy growing up in New York City who became a renowned artist through his own unique medium. By the illustrator of In Daddy’s Arms I Am Tall.
Too Much Glue by Jason Lefebvre, illustrated by Zac Retz: If your kiddo can’t get enough of glue (mine is in a real glue stick phase) this one is for you. “Some beautiful things only happen once” is a phrase we go back to over and over.
When I Draw a Panda by Amy June Bates: If you have ever “messed up” a drawing, you’ll love this! A little girl (possibly living with her single dad, love that!) can’t daw a straight line, but she and her panda are awfully good at drawing flat tires and dragons.
Looking for a great picture book about art? You can find more of my favorites on my Bookshop lists.