Common Practice: Basketball & Contemporary Art

Where the court meets the canvas. Discover the electrifying connection between sport and creativity in Common Practice: Basketball & Contemporary Art — the first major illustrated book to explore how the world of basketball has inspired generations of artists. Published by Skira Editore, this visually stunning volume brings together over a century of artwork by more than 250 artists, revealing how the game of basketball has influenced some of the most important figures in modern and contemporary art. From legendary works by David Hammons and Robert Indiana to bold contemporary pieces by Nina Chanel Abney and Titus Kaphar, the book showcases how artists transform the energy of the court into powerful visual expression.

Throughout the pages you’ll also encounter iconic creators such as Salvador Dalí, Keith Haring, Andy Warhol, Faith Ringgold, Ai Weiwei, and KAWS—all offering unique perspectives on basketball’s cultural power. Whether depicting players in motion, using the court as a bold visual motif, or exploring deeper themes like identity, social justice, and community, these works reveal basketball as more than just a game. Featuring insights from artist Carlos Rolón and writing by Dan Peterson—founder of the nonprofit Project Backboard, which transforms basketball courts into vibrant public art spaces—Common Practice explores the shared spirit between athletes and artists: the constant drive to practice, experiment, and perfect their craft.

Dynamic, thought-provoking, and packed with incredible imagery, Common Practice: Basketball & Contemporary Art celebrates the rhythm, creativity, and cultural impact of basketball through the lens of art. Whether you love the game, the gallery, or both, this book is a slam dunk.

Details 

• Hardcover  
• 352 Pages and 300 Illustrations
• Dimension: 9.5in x 11in