Creativity.
"It’s not where you take things from,
it’s where you take them to.”
- Jean-Luc Godard
Now that the cold is really setting in, it can be hard to tap into your creative side and get motivated. Whenever I need a little inspiration I turn to the bounty of books below. Inside you're guaranteed to find an abundance of beauty that is sure to challenge your mind and invigorate your inner artist.
PURE ART
Bob Recine: Alchemy of Beauty - by René Ricard
Alchemy of Beauty is a wondrous collection of the work of Bob Recine; from fine art, collages and sketches to headdresses and hair masterpieces. The combination of his work and the complimentary makeup is mindful and thought provoking.
Alex Box - by Photographer Rankin
As one title in Photographer Rankin's unique series about creatives of our generation, this book showcases the work of visionary makeup artist, Alex Box. Her work is perhaps the most experimental of our time and truly defies the boundaries of the makeup industry. As the Creative Director behind the striking and unique brand Illamasqua, there is no question that Alex's work is always one of a kind.
One Woman 100 Faces - by Francesca Tolot
This book is perhaps the most intriguing to me by far. It documents the unique relationship between celebrity makeup artist, Francesca Tolot, and her muse, Mitzi Martin. This incredible anthology of their work together demonstrates the chameleon like power of makeup by showcasing 100 different works of art, each with varying themes, moods and connotations.
A tribute to The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s annual Costume Institute exhibition, this book is a collection of exhibition artwork, vogue editorials inspired by the works of exhibitors and red carpet moments from annual galas. Featuring jaw-dropping work from iconic photographers, this book lets you step inside the zeitgeist of high fashion throughout time.
The creative mind of Guido Palau is astounding. The astonishing vision, detail, technique and visuals in this book truly cement him as a visionary of the beauty industry.
"As the constantly-called-upon pro for designers like Calvin Klein, Alexander Wang, and Marc Jacobs, Guido is known for setting trends with a flick of his brush." - The New York Times T Magazine
FASHION: 150 Years of Couturiers, Designers, Labels - by Charlotte Seeling
When looking for inspiration we often look to the past. This is the perfect historical collection of photography and information - including the social, political and cultural influences on the fashion of each era. It's easy to see how style has evolved and how history has influenced the icons of our generation.
As you can imagine, it was difficult to keep this list short! Where do you reach to for inspiration?
xx FemFox