As a writer and creative myself, I know firsthand the immense effort that goes into producing meaningful work. That’s why I’m so passionate about properly crediting the authors and artists whose ideas and insights have impacted me along the way.
Recently, I had the opportunity to share the work of one of my favorite authors, Austin Kleon, with my audience. Kleon’s books “Show Your Work” and “Steal Like an Artist” have been absolute game-changers for me, unlocking new perspectives on creativity and the creative process.
When it came time to introduce these books to my South African readers, I was adamant about doing so in a way that honored Kleon’s intellectual property. While the temptation was there to simply repackage the content under a different title, I knew that would be a disservice – not only to Kleon, but to my own audience as well.
Instead, I crafted video titles and descriptions that clearly attributed the work to its original source. My goal wasn’t to take credit, but to shine a light on these invaluable resources and encourage my followers to explore Kleon’s full body of work. After all, the true power lies in the ideas themselves, not in who introduces them.
I believe that as creators, we have a responsibility to uplift and amplify the voices of those who have come before us. Whether it’s citing sources in an academic paper or properly crediting inspiration in our creative projects, maintaining integrity around intellectual property is crucial.
Not only does it demonstrate respect for the hard work of others, but it also fosters a healthier, more collaborative creative ecosystem. When we freely share and build upon each other’s ideas, everyone benefits.
So as you continue on your own creative journey, I encourage you to always keep this principle in mind. Shine a spotlight on the authors, artists, and thinkers who have enriched your life. And in doing so, you just might inspire someone else to do the same.
