Hygge may seem to be suddenly all the rage, but when you live where it’s the norm for winter nights to be long, cold, and dark, it’s hardly a new concept. Hygge Vermont-style is as old as the surrounding hills and just as inviting as any Danish lifestyle book. We may not be indulging in pumpkin-spice lattes and pine-scented candles but, for some of us, snuggling up by a crackling fire with a full evening ahead to get lost in a book is one of life’s true pleasures…and the essence of coziness.

Since things have settled down after the holidays, I’ve been enjoying a line-up of wonderful books. Some, but not all, are art-related. Now seems as good a time as any to share their titles as we still have a window of long evenings to enjoy before the spring solstice arrives.

Sisters In Law: How Sandra Day O’Connor and Ruth Bader Ginsburg Went to the Supreme Court and Changed the World  by Linda Hirshman
This book couldn’t be more timely — on numerous fronts. It pulls back the velvet curtain in ways both uplifting and unsettling.

Studio Craft as Career: A Guide to Achieving Excellence in Art-Making  by Paul J. Stankard
A studio artist working in glass, Paul Stankard shares the evolution of his career from scientific glassblower to internationally renowned ‘father of modern glass paperweights’. In addition to discussing at length his philosophy for pursuing excellence while offering his insight and counsel, Stankard also highlights over 45 artists whose work he reveres, including their individual advice for success. An inspiration on many levels.

Selected Writings of Bruce Metcalf
A series of essays recommended by Paul Stankard in the above book. I haven’t made my way through all of them, but the first set consider the divide between art and craft more articulately and deeply than any other treatise I’ve read on the subject yet. Despite being written in the 80’s and 90’s, they are very enlightening and still hold water.

A History of Pictures: From the Cave to the Computer Screen  by David Hockney & Martin Gayford   (thank you Lauren!)
This thick and richly illustrated book lends itself well to long or short sessions. Hockney is one of my artistic heroes. He is so smart and astute; I always learn from and enjoy what he has to say.

Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World  by Cal Newport
As mentioned several times before in this blog, I have been reading Newport’s blog Study Hacks for well over a year and wholeheartedly buy into his theories surrounding “deep work” as a means of accomplishing more richly developed objectives in less time. I found myself taking notes throughout, but the section on formulating goals was particularly helpful.

…And for good, old-fashioned storytelling, try these fiction titles:
News of the World  by Paulette Jiles
The Thirteenth Tale  by Diane Setterfield

It’s your turn. What titles are keeping you warm this winter?

Opening up worlds
And discovering new paths
Nothing like a book
– Daniella Ignacio