Art School (in a book): A future artist's guide to contemporary art

By Author / Illustrator

Russell Tovey, Robert Diament, Rose Blake

Genre

Non Fiction

Age range(s)

Publisher

Hachette Children's Group

ISBN

9781510231412

Format

Hardback

Published

23-10-2025

Synopsis

An exciting introduction to the world of contemporary art for young creatives from the makers of hit podcast Talk Art, actor Russell Tovey and gallerist Robert Diament.

Do you love art and want to know more but don't know where to start? Introducing Art School (in a book), a virtual gallery where you can see the most exciting contemporary artists of today, as well as some of the greatest from the twentieth century, including Henri Matisse, Jean-Michel Basquiat and Frida Kahlo.

And who are the visionaries, the icons, the ones to watch now? With works by Tracey Emin, Antony Gormley, and David Hockney, study the art of key artists working today, find out what inspires them, how they work and the meaning behind their art.

With Russell and Robert as your guides you will also discover the artist within you, with tips on new ways of seeing and reacting to the world around you and guidance on how you can develop your own creativity.

Reviews

Louise

Art School (in a book) is a vibrant, accessible guide that brings the world of contemporary art into the hands and hearts of young learners. It's not just a book about art; it's an invitation to see, feel, and create.

Designed like a virtual gallery, the book introduces students to 20 influential artists working today, alongside iconic figures like Henri Matisse, Frida Kahlo, and Jean-Michel Basquiat. Through engaging profiles and vivid imagery, it demystifies the art world, making it approachable for those who may not know where to begin. Each artist’s story is paired with insights into their creative process, inspirations, and the deeper meanings behind their work, perfect for sparking classroom discussions and critical thinking.

Russell and Robert offer thoughtful prompts and reflections that help readers develop new ways of seeing the world around them. These exercises can easily be adapted into classroom activities, from visual journalling and sketching to group critiques and personal storytelling.

Whether used to support art appreciation, inspire creative writing, or explore themes of identity and expression, Art School (in a book) is a rich resource for cross-curricular learning. It's ideal for fostering curiosity, confidence, and creativity in children and for reminding them that art isn't just something you look at. It's something you live.

80 pages / Reviewed by Louise Gahan, teacher