The holiday season is fast approaching, and for those struggling to find the perfect gift for the art lover in their life, look no further. This curated list of art books is sure to impress even the most discerning of recipients. From retrospectives to performance art, there is something for everyone on this list.
For those in need of a little re-enchantment, look no further than the Ruth Asawa: Retrospective catalog. Edited by Janet Bishop and Cara Manes, this catalog accompanies the retrospective currently at MoMA in New York. Featuring essays by Anne Anlin Cheng and a letter from novelist Ruth Ozeki, this book will surely inspire a renewed sense of magic in the ordinary.
If you have an artsy friend who values the unexpected, consider gifting them Rejection/Ambition: A 25 Year Performance by Anya Liftig. This artist book strings together rejection letters documenting mistakes and foibles, offering a unique perspective on determination and recognition.
For the Vermeer devotee who missed out on tickets in 2023, Closer to Vermeer: New Research on the Painter and His Art is a must-have. Building on the Rijksmuseum’s exhibition, this book offers new insights into Vermeer’s artistic process and influences.
For the early modern history buff, Goya: The Complete Prints by Anna Reuter and José Manuel Matilla is a treasure trove of the Spanish artist’s work. With 80 prints from Los Caprichos and beyond, this volume showcases Goya’s talent for capturing the world around him.
For those craving green space, Prospect Park: Photographs of a Brooklyn Oasis, 1980 to 2025 by Jamel Shabazz is a stunning visual journey through one of Brooklyn’s most beloved parks. Highlighting the park’s history and the communities that have shaped it, this book offers a new perspective on urban green spaces.
And for the nostalgic Gen Xer or Gen Zer, The 1990s: A Visual History of the Decade by Henry Carroll is a trip down memory lane. From the birth of the internet to the fall of the Berlin Wall, this book captures the essence of a decade that shaped a generation.
No matter who you’re shopping for this holiday season, these art books are sure to delight and inspire. Happy gifting!
The intricate world of emblems and their hidden meanings come alive in Symbolorum: The Secret Wisdom of Emblems by Mandy Aftel. This captivating book takes readers on a journey through the enigmatic world of emblem books, offering a glimpse into the symbolic language of 16th- and 17th-century Europe.
Aftel introduces readers to the fascinating tradition of emblem books, which served as a visual and textual guide to understanding the complexities of the world. Each emblem featured a carefully crafted image paired with a Latin inscription, drawing on ancient wisdom to impart universal truths about life. These emblems, akin to tarot cards, offered a unique perspective on the interconnectedness of nature, humanity, and the divine.
In Symbolorum, Aftel meticulously examines 100 detailed images and inscriptions from a rare 1654 edition of Joachim Camerarius the Younger’s emblem book. These exquisite engravings, hand-painted by Aftel herself, showcase the beauty and complexity of the emblematic tradition. Through her insightful commentaries as a perfumer and scholar of alchemy and mythology, Aftel sheds light on the profound significance of each emblem, inviting readers to uncover the hidden wisdom within.
As readers delve into the pages of Symbolorum, they are transported to a world where symbols speak louder than words, where images hold secrets waiting to be revealed. Aftel’s exquisite craftsmanship and deep knowledge of emblems breathe new life into this ancient art form, offering a fresh perspective on the timeless wisdom encoded within these enigmatic symbols.
For mythology enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone intrigued by the power of symbols, Symbolorum is a must-read. This captivating book not only illuminates the rich tradition of emblem books but also invites readers to explore the profound truths hidden within these intricate designs. Embark on a journey of discovery with Symbolorum and unlock the secret wisdom of emblems that have captivated minds for centuries.
For the art enthusiast:
Step into a world of unexpected visuals and thought-provoking reflections with the upcoming release of “This Literary Cabinet of Curiosities” by Lauren Moya Ford. Scheduled to be published by Abbeville Press on December 9, 2025, this collection promises to be a unique and captivating experience for readers.
Described as a “literary cabinet of curiosities,” each image within the book is a mysterious universe unto itself, inviting readers to delve into a realm of imagination and creativity. From whimsical illustrations to intricate designs, this book is a visual feast that will spark inspiration and contemplation.
As you turn the pages of this literary treasure trove, you will encounter a diverse array of visuals that challenge traditional notions of art and storytelling. The unexpected juxtapositions and innovative approaches to image-making will leave you mesmerized and eager to explore each intricate detail.
Whether you are a seasoned art collector or simply appreciate the beauty of visual storytelling, “This Literary Cabinet of Curiosities” is sure to captivate your imagination. Pre-order your copy today on Bookshop and prepare to embark on a journey of discovery and wonder.
For the painter:
Delve into the world of acclaimed artist Jordan Casteel with the new monograph “Jordan Casteel” by Legacy Russell, Asma Naeem, and Katherine Brinson. Scheduled to be published by Phaidon Press on December 10, 2025, this book offers a comprehensive look at Casteel’s unique approach to portraiture and painting.
Described by art critic John Yau as a painter who is “too in love with paint and what it could do to be called a photorealist,” Jordan Casteel’s work is a testament to the power of color, texture, and materiality in art. Through her portraits of friends and family, as well as images of flowers and everyday objects, Casteel celebrates the beauty of everyday life while honoring the lives and visibility of Black individuals.
With essays by Asma Naeem and Katherine Brinson, as well as a conversation between Casteel and curator Legacy Russell, this monograph offers a deep dive into the artist’s creative process and influences. Whether you are a fan of portraiture or simply appreciate rich, rapturous painting, this book is a must-have addition to your collection.
Pre-order “Jordan Casteel” on Bookshop today and experience the mesmerizing world of one of the most exciting painters of our time.
