December resulted in a huge creative slump for me, there were several factors that I think most likely caused this but I don’t want to dwell on them here as I would rather tell you about how I got out of it.

There are many elements to this but the one I want to focus on today is the books that have really inspired me over the last few weeks. I usually read trashy books for pure escapism but I was fortunate to receive a couple of books over the holiday period that were not at all part of this category. I also decide to treat myself to a luxurious art book and I am so glad that i did!

The first book I was given was Stanley Tucci’s ‘Taste, My Life Through Food’. Prior to reading this book, apart from seeing Stanley in ‘The Devils Wear Prada’ and ‘Julia and Julie’, I knew very little about Stanley. This book focuses on the significance of food as part of his life from early childhood all the way through to the recent time when Stanley couldn’t eat due to oral cancer. The clarity with which he recalls memories is superb and thus allows you to visualise being in the situation he is describing. As a result I had my mind transported by reading this book, perfect for dreaming and art inspiration and I can’t wait to try out the recipes that are dotted throughout. I thought it was so good that I have already lent it to my sister who is a real foodie and will love it!

The second book I read was Ben Fogle’s ‘Inspire, Life Lessons from the Wilderness’. I was fortunate enough to be bought a personalised signed copy for Christmas. I have read many of Ben Fogle’s books and this didn’t disappoint. He combines both his own nature experiences from his childhood holidays in Canada through to today with the stories of others he has visited over the years through the programmes he has made. The only negative is that if you have read Ben’s previous books, there is a level of repetition in his stories, but this is understandable as they are inspirational and critical to the complete story. The book reminded me to make the most of the nature that is surrounding me and that you don’t have to go on a big adventure to be adventurous or create art!

Finally, I read an art book and actually read it cover to cover it was so compelling. However, it would also be a lovely one to dip into and out of over a cup of tea for regular bouts of inspiration. It was Louise Fletcher’s ‘Life Force’. Louse created a series of artworks in response to the poetry of Ted Hughes which are beautiful and evocative pieces of art. It is a beautiful book but what I found particularly inspirational was the insight into her creative journey from idea through to completion. She shares this with complete honesty and vulnerability. As a fellow artist, this was extremely reassuring and gave me motivation to continue creating.

So there you go, three books that have helped me restore my creativity.  I would love to hear from you other recommendations of books that you have found inspiring.