These are books that I've read over and over..... and over...
'Letters To a Young Artist' by Julia Cameron. Wonderful book for someone starting out in their art career. Cameron quickly nips a lot of silly ideas about art and artists in the bud.
'The War Of Art' by Steven Pressfield. You wont survive 'the resistance' without this book... a must read for everyone who creates, even if not as an artist.
'101 Things To Learn In Art School' by Kit White. A reminder of all the important stuff. I dip into it to stay on track.
'Painting In Oil' by Ryno Swart. Very practical, with lovely hand written notes.
'The Drawing Book' by Dr. Sarah Semblet I'm just jealous that she's written this book, has a doctorate and teaches at Oxford!
'The Simple Secret To Better Painting' by Greg Albert. Learn to plan paintings well. If your composition is off, nothing else will save you.
'Art a New History' by Paul Johnson. This is my favourite Art History book. Paul Johnson is not part of the art 'clique'. An original thinker, he is very opinionated and I love that!
'Oil Painting Secrets From a Master' by Linda Cateura. Packed with invaluable information, these are class notes Linda collected while studying under David A. Leffel.
'Mastering Color' by Vicki McMurry. Great for explaining colour to students.
'Landscape Painting' by Mitchell Albala. Not just for landscapes. The principles, tips and tricks in this book apply to all painting subjects. Very well written and accessible.