ART DIRECTION

ART DIRECTION

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ART DIRECTION
ART DIRECTION
The Art Director's Visual Library

The Art Director's Visual Library

50+ Tools, resources, and sites I actually use for research

Zoë Yasemin Akihary's avatar
Zoë Yasemin Akihary
Apr 13, 2025
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ART DIRECTION
ART DIRECTION
The Art Director's Visual Library
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Hi everyone,

I hope you’re having a good weekend! Spring is finally here, the leaves are finally growing on the trees, people are more outside and there is overall a feeling of a more renewed energy around me.

I just came up from one of the best trips I had and am now taking it slow for 1-2 days to cope with my jet lag. What better way to lay in bed and write some Substacks.

It is time for an updated and new version of resources I use as an art director, this time it is more like an actual library. A list of places I dig for research, casting ideas, typography, set inspiration and old campaign references. I’ve included some people rarely talk about and also sorted it by category with links. No gatekeeping here, because we all know that we will all curate our own ideas through our personal taste anyways.

It’s also a reminder that there are a lot more places to find inspiration than you think. Of course going out into the world, wandering bookstores, observing people, writing down things that spark you on a daily are the best form of inspiration. Although this can sometime serve as a mindful starting point, you need the images to bring it to life to a presentable concept.

So let’s jump into it! Over 50+ resources that can really elevate your work, whether you’re a photographer, stylist, creative, business owner, strategist etc.

This post is for free subscribers. Considering upgrading to paid if you want access to the full archive, guided art direction briefings, concept labs, visual playbooks, guides and a lot more.

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