Steal Like an Artist
Steal Like an Artist – Unlocking Creativity by Embracing Your Influences
As an Austin myself, I’ve long been a fan of the work of Austin Kleon. While I may not have written the books, I can certainly appreciate the insights and wisdom he shares. His latest work, “Steal Like an Artist,” is a must-read for anyone looking to unlock their creative potential.
At its core, the book is about embracing the fact that no idea is truly original. Kleon argues that the most innovative and influential creators throughout history have all built upon the work of those who came before them. The key is to learn how to “steal” in a way that is authentic and transformative.
Some of the key lessons from “Steal Like an Artist” include:
- “Nothing is original” – Kleon encourages readers to let go of the myth of the lone genius and instead focus on curating and combining existing ideas in novel ways.
- “Use your hands” – He emphasizes the importance of physical, hands-on creative work as a way to internalize and build upon your influences.
- “Side projects and hobbies are important” – Kleon suggests that our most meaningful work often emerges from the activities we pursue for pure enjoyment.
While I may not have written these books myself, I can certainly appreciate the profound impact they’ve had on the creative community. As a fellow Austin, I’m inspired to continue exploring Kleon’s ideas and finding new ways to “steal” and share my own unique perspective with the world. Who knows, maybe someday I’ll even write a book of my own! (But I’ll be sure to give credit where it’s due.)
