What’s the story
Art has the power to inspire, teach, and connect us to the world in unique ways.
For children, picture books about art can open doors to creativity and imagination.
This article highlights a selection of art-themed picture books that are perfect for young readers.
Each book combines captivating stories with beautiful illustrations, making them ideal for introducing kids to the joy of art.
‘The Dot’
The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds tells the story of Vashti, a young girl who believes she cannot draw.
Encouraged by her teacher to make a mark on her paper, Vashti’s dot becomes the start of her journey into creativity and confidence.
This book is a celebration of self-expression and encourages children to embrace their own artistic journey, no matter how small they start.
‘Katie’s Sunday Afternoon’
Katie’s Sunday Afternoon by James Mayhew is part of a series where Katie explores famous paintings and meets the artists behind them.
In this adventure, Katie finds herself in various impressionist paintings on a Sunday afternoon.
It’s an imaginative introduction to Monet, Renoir, and Seurat, offering kids an engaging way to learn about these masters and their techniques.
‘Ish’
Ish by Peter H. Reynolds focuses on Ramon who loves to draw but loses his confidence when his brother laughs at his work.
Ramon learns that his drawings don’t need to be perfect; they just need to be “ish.”
This story teaches children about resilience in creativity and that the joy of creation is found in the process rather than perfection.
‘The Noisy Paint Box’
The Noisy Paint Box: The Colors and Sounds of Kandinsky’s Abstract Art by Barb Rosenstock tells the story of Vasily Kandinsky, a pioneer of abstract art.
It reveals how Kandinsky’s synesthesia—seeing colors as sounds and vice versa—influenced his unique painting style.
This book is an inspiring tale about viewing the world differently and discovering one’s artistic voice.
