Creative Lives

How do they do it?

Of course, the answer is that there are as many ways of creating powerful art as there are artists. Nevertheless, sometimes all you need to know is that it can be done. Sometimes, the reflections on craft, life and art in the words of someone you admire is just what you need to begin to find your own creative flow - to expand who you are and what you can do.

These are some of our favourite memoirs and biographies by artists in a variety of disciplines and forms. They're journeys of mastering and letting go, of loneliness and community, of getting lost and finding a voice. Some may not address creativity head-on, but turn to the art of others when navigating life's most difficult questions. We hope you'll find new favourites among them.