Art & Fear investigates how art is created, why it frequently isn't created, and the types of challenges that lead so many artists to give up along the road. The book's co-authors, David Bayles and Ted Orland, are both active artists who deal with the challenges of creating art in the real world on a daily basis. Their thoughts and insights, which are based on firsthand knowledge, offer a sharp perspective on the world of art as it is experienced by the artists themselves. 
 
Unlike most self-help books, this one is unique. This book was written by artists, for artists. It explores the emotions experienced by artists as they sit down at their easel or keyboard, in their studio or performance venue, and attempt to do the task that has to be done. Art & Fear, which was first released in 1994, immediately gained a cult following. It is now among the best-selling books about creativity and art in the country just based on word-of-mouth, which has been boosted by internet posting.