Books That Inspire in the Time of Physical Isolation

I’m not a habitual reader, but there are times I discover a book that I cannot put down. Now that I have more time at home, I’m making more time to read. Over the years I’ve accumulated a list of favorites that put me in an artistic frame of mind and keep me inspired.

JANINE ANTONI – Hatje Cantz Publishers

I discovered the artist Janine Antoni while in art school in the early 2000s. She makes sculptural and performative works using her body and untraditional raw materials. Her work often reclaims traditionally masculine spaces and explores ideas of labor and gender. Her work helped me dig deeper into my passion for repetitive labor and a love for physical materials. The “Material” in Material+Movement was most inspired by her. This book highlights my favorite works including “Loving Care”, “Butterfly Kisses”, and “Lick and Lather”.

Salt – Nayyirah Waheed

Poetry is not my forte, so I feel extra lucky to have found such a moving and beautiful Poet as Nayyirah Waheed. Her poems are profound and accessible; which is perhaps why she is one of the most popular poets on social media. She writes about feminism, creation, racial identity, and love. Each page in her book of poetry hits me deep and sometimes lands directly in my heart. Here is one of my favorites:

when you are struggling
in your
writing (art).
it usually means
you
are hearing one thing.
but
writing (creating) another.

 --honest  |  risk

On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous – Ocean Vuong

My well-read partner recommended this book and as always, he was spot on. This novel provides a splendid and brutally truthful story that’s perfect for escaping the bouts of monotony that come with physically quarantining. Vuong is a poet and the language easily reflects his wordsmithing skills, while telling a story relevant to the times.

In The Company of Women – Grace Bonney

This is my top source for written inspiration, encouragement, and admiration of women who are living the dream – my dream. The author interviews over 100 makers, artists, and entrepreneurs about what inspires them, sacrifices they’ve made for their success, and important lessons they’ve learned. It’s really hard to choose, but some of my favorite interviews include Lisa Hunt, Samin Nosrat, Issa Rae, and Randi Brookman Harris. Anytime I’m feeling doubtful, lost, or rundown (which is a lot, lately), I open this book and am filled up again.

Let me know what books keep you inspired in the comments. Stay safe and sane!