The conventional framework of art history, which tells us when, where and by whom an artwork was made, does little to make the case for why art is so important. In this book Alain de Botton and John Armstrong propose a new way of looking at art, suggesting that it can be useful, relevant and above all else, therapeutic for its audiences. The authors begin by laying out a method for looking at art therapeutically, then demonstrate it in action on key themes of existence, like Love, Nature, Money and Politics.

Passionate, thought provoking, often funny and always accessible, this book reframes art as a therapeutic medium that can guide, console and exhort us, and along the way, help us to understand both art and ourselves better.

Author: Alain de Botton
Paperback
240 pages
19.8 x 13.1 x 1.9cm