Picture books are the perfect way to introduce children to historical figures, especially artists. Whenever I spot a picture about an artist at the public library I bring it home and add it to my list.

So here are three short reviews of picture books that focus on Frida Kahlo, Pablo Picasso, and Horace Pippin. I hope to follow up with more artist picture books in the new year.

Me, Frida by Amy Novesky, illustrated by David Diaz (Harry N. Abrams, 2010)

This book about Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera’s move from Mexico to San Francisco focuses on Frida finding her own identity. The story ends with her creating her first painting in her distinctive style (“Freida and Diego Rivera”). The charcoal and acrylic illustrations are vibrant and a small reproduction of the painting is included at the end. Recommended for ages 6-8.

Paris in the Spring with Picasso  by Joan Yolleck, illustrated by Marjorie Priceman (Schwartz & Wade, 2010)

In this colourful and chaotic picture book the reader is taken on a tour of Paris to meet famous artists. The book gives a glimpse of their lifestyles and working habits. At the end you’ll find brief biographies of Gertrude Stein, Pablo Picasso, Max Jacob, Guillaume Apollinaire, and Alice B. Toklas. Although it has been recommended for ages 4-8, I think it would appeal more to older kids with an interest in the historical figures.

A Splash of Red: The Life and Art of Horace Pippin by Jen Bryant, illustrated by Melissa Sweet (Knopf, 2013)

Before I read this book I had never heard of self-taught African-American artist Horace Pippin (1888-1946). As a chronological biography, it’s a good place to start. The scrapbook style illustrations include drawings and text, as well as renderings of some of Pippin’s paintings. No one can argue that the theme of hard work and overcoming difficulties is a bad one for children! Includes a one-page historical note, detailed author’s and illustrator’s notes, lists for further reading, and sources of quotations.  Recommended for ages 6-9.

Do you have any favourite picture books about famous artists or composers?