5 Books For The Year 2023
"I think a life properly lived is just learn, learn, learn all the time."
— Charlie Munger
As we bid farewell to another year, it's time to reflect on the literary treasures that caught our attention this year in conversations in and around the studio. In this review, we delve into design director Kristian Hydes 5 books of 2023. Each tome hopes to offer a unique perspective on life, creativity, and the human experience.
Life 3.0
Max Tegmark
“I believe that consciousness is the way information feels when being processed.”
– Max Tegmark
Out of all the books I have read this year, Ive gifted this one the most. Simply because of the impact AI will have on all our lives. I’ve written about AI’s relationship with architecture and the candy visuals that have bombarded the internet. The book is a compelling blend of science, philosophy, and speculation, challenging readers to contemplate the implications of a future shaped by intelligent machines.
Black Swan
Nassim Taleb
“The fragility of systems becomes apparent when confronted with Black Swan events. Building robustness in the face of uncertainty is key to survival.”
– Nassim Taleb
Nassim Taleb's "Black Swan" was a tough but rewarding read, offering a thought-provoking examination of unexpected, high-impact events that shape our world. Taleb's insights into randomness, uncertainty, and the human tendency to underestimate the role of rare events make this book a gripping and enlightening read. In a world increasingly defined by unpredictability, "Black Swan" made us realise that the unexpected is actually the normal.
Art as Therapy
Alain de Botton
“There is no such thing as work-life balance. Everything worth fighting for unbalances your life.”
– Alain de Botton
Alain de Botton, in "Art as Therapy," transforms the way we perceive and engage with art. He contends that art has the power to address our emotional needs, providing therapeutic benefits beyond aesthetic appreciation. De Botton's perspective is a refreshing departure from traditional art criticism, encouraging readers to view art as a tool for personal introspection and even emotional healing.
Leonardo da Vinci
Walter Isaacson
Thick and heavy as should any book on Leonardo be. Walter Isaacson's biography of the Renaissance polymath is a masterful study of the life and mind of one of history's greatest geniuses. Isaacson delves into da Vinci's notebooks, revealing the intricacies of his artistic, scientific, and engineering endeavours. The biography paints a vivid portrait of a man whose insatiable curiosity and creativity continue to inspire and awe us all centuries later.
The War of Art
Steven Pressfield
"The War of Art" is a motivational manifesto for overcoming creative resistance. Reading this you will continually feel some sort of silent understanding with the author. Some of the emotions explored will feel all too familiar. Through concise and powerful prose, Pressfield identifies the internal obstacles that hinder our creative production. The book provides practical strategies for defeating them. Whether you're an artist, writer, or entrepreneur, or just someone that practices rigour in your craft, this book will help you confront self-doubt and embrace the creative process.
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Book List
Life 3.0
Black Swan
Art as Therapy
Leonardo da Vinci
The War of Art
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