Little Bookworm loves to draw and paint, and she really enjoys Bob Ross. So we were excited to check out these new kid’s books about art and artists!

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Programmed to Paint

Written and illustrated by Mauricio Abril

This adorable story introduces readers to Pintro, a robot who does everything perfectly. When he decides to start painting, everything he paints comes out perfectly. But he wants his artwork to be more creative, like other artists. So he joins an art class and learns that making mistakes is part of finding your creative voice. This sweet story has a great message for kids that they don’t have to do things perfectly.

All About Color

Written by Elizabeth Rusch and illustrated by Elizabeth Goss

This study of color explores what color is, how light helps us to see colors, and what colors can mean. The easy to read text is paired with colorful artwork that uses colors in unexpected ways. The back of the book includes more scientific information about colors.

Signs of Hope: The Revolutionary Art of Sister Corita Kent

Written by Mara Rockliff and illustrated by Melissa Sweet

This picture book biography teaches readers the story of Sister Corita Kent, the “Pop Art nun”. Told from the perspective of one of her art students, the text shares the artistic vision of Sister Corita, and how she saw the world. The illustrations are bold and bright, with quotes from the artist spread throughout the pages. The back of the book includes notes from the author and the illustrator, a timeline of the artist’s life, and sources for the quotes used in the book.

Related Post: New Children’s Books about Art & Drawing

The Artivist

Written and illustrated by Nikkolas Smith

This powerful book tells the author’s story of how he is an artist as well as an activist. When the young boy in the illustrations realizes that there are things he wants to change in the world, he uses his artwork to make a difference and help the community. The inspirational text encourages kids to go out and become Artivists themselves and make a difference in the world. The author’s note at the back explains his own artivist journey and his vision for everyone to use their talents to make a difference.

ARTificial Intelligence

Written by David Biedrzycki

In this beautiful story, a robot struggles to be like the other robots. He dreams in color and does too much daydreaming. When he is sent to be reprogrammed, he takes a wrong turn and ends up out in the world where he discovers music, dancing, and artwork. Will he be able to show the art he loves to his friends to change the world? The illustrations are often done in muted colors, with large splashes of colors becoming more prevalent as the robot learns about art.

Painting with Bob Ross for Kids

From Quarto Publishing

This step by step guide to painting offers easy to follow instructions for kids who want to learn how to paint like Bob Ross. The book starts with an explanation of the tools and materials needed to paint like Ross, and how each tool will be used. Kids can then use the step by step instructions to make all kinds of beautiful scenes including springtime, sunset, waterfalls, and more. Small cartoons spread throughout the pages offer bits of advice and encouragement for young painters.

What are your favorite new kid’s books about art? Share them in the comments below!

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