Professional & Niche
Keep Going
Austin Kleon
A guide to staying creative through life's ups and downs. Drawing on personal anecdotes and the wisdom of other artists, this book offers ten practical rules to help you make the most of each day and keep your creative spirit alive.
The Creative Act
Rick Rubin
"The Creative Act" is a meditative and beautifully crafted guide to creativity, written by Rick Rubin, the legendary music producer known for helping artists like Adele, Jay-Z, and Johnny Cash discover their truest sound. Unlike typical manuals that focus on technical skills, Rubin’s work operates on a spiritual and philosophical level, distilling decades of wisdom into a timeless exploration of where art comes from. The core premise of the book is that creativity is not a rare ability reserved for artists, but a fundamental aspect of being human. Rubin argues that the "creative act" is a way of moving through the world—a practice of heightened awareness, deep listening, and openness to the unknown. Through a series of short, reflective chapters, Rubin encourages readers to quiet the noise of the ego and tune into the "Source." He offers gentle yet profound guidance on overcoming blocks, cultivating patience, and trusting one’s intuition. "The Creative Act" is an invitation to view life itself as a work of art, providing a sanctuary for anyone looking to reconnect with their inner spark and bring something new into existence.
Designing Design
Kenya Hara
*Designing Design* by Kenya Hara explores the philosophy and practice of design through a Japanese lens. Hara, a renowned designer, delves into the core principles that underpin effective and meaningful design, emphasizing the importance of sensory perception, cultural understanding, and the re-evaluation of everyday objects. The book challenges readers to see the world with fresh eyes, encouraging them to find inspiration in the ordinary and to consider design as a process of communication and sensory engagement. Through explorations of projects like "RE-DESIGN," "HAPTIC," and the design philosophy of MUJI, Hara illustrates how design can awaken the senses, reveal hidden qualities in familiar things, and respond to global consumer culture with simplicity and rationality. The book also examines the significance of "white" as a design concept and explores Japan's unique cultural perspective in shaping design thinking. Readers will gain insights into how design can be used to create a deeper understanding of the world around them. *Designing Design* offers a unique perspective on the power of design to shape our perceptions, stimulate our senses, and foster a more harmonious relationship with our environment. It encourages designers and non-designers alike to embrace a more thoughtful and intentional approach to the creation and appreciation of the objects and experiences that surround us.
How to Start
David Kadavy
Unlock your creative potential and overcome the mental barriers that hold you back from starting. This book provides practical strategies and inspiring stories to help you find the heart to start anything, from writing a novel to launching a business.
Show Your Work!
Austin Kleon
A guide for people who hate self-promotion, offering an alternative approach to sharing your work and attracting an audience. Learn how to think of your work as a never-ending process, share that process in a way that attracts people, and deal with the ups and downs of putting yourself and your work out in the world.
Imagine
Jonah Lehrer
From the best-selling author of How We Decide comes a sparkling and revelatory look at the new science of creativity. Jonah Lehrer demonstrates that creativity is not a single gift possessed by the lucky few. It’s a variety of distinct thought processes that we can all learn to use more effectively. Imagine reveals the deep inventiveness of the human mind, and its essential role in our increasingly complex world.
Non-Obvious Thinking
Rohit Bhargava
Unlock your potential for innovative thinking with 'Non-Obvious Thinking.' This book provides a framework for overcoming blind spots, challenging assumptions, and discovering unique solutions to complex problems. Learn to see the world from a fresh perspective and cultivate the mindset of a true non-obvious thinker.
Steal Like an Artist
Austin Kleon
Discover how to unlock your creative potential by embracing influence, collecting ideas, and remixing them into something uniquely your own. This book is a guide for anyone seeking to inject creativity into their life and work, offering practical advice and inspiration to help you find your voice and make your mark.