An art gallery in book form, this fascinating volume showcases the works and lives of the greatest painters and sculptors the world has ever seen.

Abstract expressionist Jackson Pollock said, "Every good artist paints what he is." Step into the world of over 80 artists from Giotto - the towering figure of Italy's early Renaissance - to conceptual artist Damian Hirst, and learn about their lives, loves, and sources of inspiration.

Artists shows how events of the day impacted on individuals' work. Browse fascinating accounts of each one in the context of their time, with pictures that demonstrate the full genius of their works. This comprehensive reference brings you the tumultuous lives of Hans Holbein the Younger, Vincent van Gogh, Georgia O'Keefe, Andy Warhol, and many others. It reveals artists you may not have heard of, and gives unexpected detail of the lives of famous figures, from Leonardo da Vinci and Auguste Rodin to Frida Kahlo and Anish Kapoor.

Artists also features technique and context boxes that explore how art has evolved, and "key moment" timelines with essential dates.

Richly illustrated throughout, it is the ideal gift for art-lovers, young and old.