An Artist's Life tells of artist, author, and architect Carlton Davis's relentless search for his soul's desire. With degrees in architecture, he works with luminary architects, but his métier is making art. He relates to the art stars while berating himself for lacking their talent and discipline. Yet his antennae are always alert. Despite terrifying mood swings, he is a keen observer of human nature which he documents with drawings and words.

Life's travails bedevil Carlton. He attempts suicide, has a failed marriage, becomes addicted to crack cocaine, and discovers he contains a female self he calls Carlotta "because she's a whole lotta Carl." He struggles to sit in silent meditation, but ends up at a mental hospital, where a gifted psychiatrist proves to him that he is suffering from Bipolar I disorder and helps him initiate sobriety and recovery.

Self-portraits grace every chapter of An Artist's Life, covering 50 years. At first glance, there appear to be a dozen sitters rather than one, but this shows the essence of Carl's harrowing unrest. An Artist's Life pleases the eye and ear, whether perused at random or read cover to cover. The book reflects a joyous collaboration between Davis and co-author Peter Lownds, who bring this moving story that combines art history, reminiscence, and the pleasure of success.