A History of Pictures for Children: From Cave Paintings to Computer Drawings

From the first cave paintings to contemporary digital art, A History of Pictures for Children takes young readers on an extraordinary visual journey through thousands of years of human creativity.

Created by renowned art historian David Hockney and author Martin Gayford, this richly illustrated introduction to art explores how people have used pictures to tell stories, record history, express ideas, and see the world in new ways. Along the way, readers encounter ancient murals, Renaissance masterpieces, photography, comic books, film, and computer-generated imagery, discovering how artists across cultures and centuries have changed the way we look at life.

Accessible, engaging, and filled with fascinating details, this unique book encourages children to become careful observers and curious thinkers. Side-by-side comparisons, surprising connections, and vivid illustrations reveal that every picture has a story to tell.

Perfect for budding artists, museum lovers, teachers, and families, A History of Pictures for Children is an inspiring introduction to art, creativity, and visual storytelling that will spark curiosity long after the final page.

“A brilliant, knockout collaboration―one that will continue to excite, provoke, and engage kids and their grown-ups.” ―Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
 

David Hockney was one of the most influential and celebrated artists of the modern era. Internationally renowned for his paintings, drawings, prints, photography, and digital works, he continually expanded the possibilities of visual representation throughout a career that spanned more than six decades.

Martin Gayford is an art critic, author, and curator whose books include A History of Pictures, Man with a Blue Scarf, and Modernists & Mavericks. He has written extensively about artists, museums, and the history of visual culture and is widely recognized for making art accessible to readers of all ages.

Rose Blake is an award-winning artist based in London. Known for her vibrant, imaginative style, she has illustrated numerous acclaimed books for children, including A History of Pictures for Children. Blake has also created artwork for publications and organizations including The New Yorker, The New York Times, the BBC, Google, Disney, and Tate. Her work helps young readers engage with art, history, and creativity in fresh and accessible ways.