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Clonts: An Artist's Library

When I am around other artists the subject of reading usually comes up. Most artists I know devour books and live on documentaries about artists. I keep a fair library in my studio but there are five books I always return to for inspiration.

“Paul Thek - Artist’s Artist” by Falckenberg and Weibel is a 639 page marvel about the epitome of an “artist’s artist." Thek seemingly never slept as he made art. Every page is filled with mountains of his work and observations. It’s gritty and beautiful all at once.

“The Collected Writings Of Robert Motherwell” edited by Terenzio is colossal. It includes a chapter of Motherwell’s quotes that read like Proverbs from the Bible.

“How To See” by artist David Salle is masterfully written and continuously challenges me on how to see art on a much deeper level, what to look for, and why I should.

“Cy Twombly Gallery” edited by Sylvester and Del Roscio is a 219 page collection of the master’s works held in the Menil Collection in Houston. I have toured the Twombly Gallery several times, spending many hours each visit. I call it simply “church.”

And finally, “Monet’s Table - The Cooking Journals of Claude Monet” by Claire Joyes. Replete with recipes and photos of the maestro’s home, garden, and kitchen, readers gain insight as to how this extraordinary artist truly lived and entertained. This book reminds me to make every effort to live better, and with greater imagination.

These books are dog-eared and full of my personal marginalia. They have my whole heart.