Art as Therapy
Self-Help Art History Psychology Mental Wellness Art Therapy Art Criticism & Theory Philosophy of Art
Art as Therapy (ISBN 9780714865911) is the 2013 illustrated hardcover that turns art history into a practical toolkit for modern life. Co-authored by philosopher Alain de Botton and art theorist John Armstrong, and produced in partnership with The School of Life, this 240-page Phaidon Press edition argues that paintings, sculptures and photographs can function as powerful forms of self-help. Instead of asking “Is it a masterpiece?” the book asks “What emotional work can this piece do for me?”—and then shows exactly how to use works ranging from a 17th-century still-life to a contemporary installation to calm anxiety, spark hope, or re-frame grief. Every spread pairs high-resolution color images with concise, jargon-free essays that link artistic techniques—color, composition, symbolism—to concrete psychological benefits.
Collectors prize this oversized 10.6" × 8.1" volume for its gallery-quality production: heavyweight matte stock, crisp duotones, and a durable pictorial dust jacket that survives repeated browsing. The generous layout lets readers view entire works at a glance, while inset captions function like discreet wall labels, making the book feel like a portable museum curated for mental wellness. Because it was originally marketed as a general-interest gift book rather than a college text, first-printing copies in very-good condition—especially smoke-free, jacket-intact examples—already command a premium on the secondary market.
Young adults, returning students, and seasoned art-lovers alike keep Art as Therapy in demand because it bridges the gap between academic theory and daily life. Therapists use it as a conversation starter with clients; design professionals keep it on the studio shelf for creative reset; and gift-givers appreciate that it flatters both the coffee table and the intellect. Owning this copy means having permanent access to a method that turns every museum visit—or quiet evening with an art book—into an opportunity for personal growth, all while adding a visually striking, conversation-sparking object to your home library.
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