Steal Like an Artist: 10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative

About the book

Austin Kleon argues that creativity stems from influence rather than original invention. He presents a framework where artists seek out mentors, study their lineage, and collect ideas to remix into something new. The book details ten specific strategies, such as maintaining a file of stolen clippings, using physical tools instead of digital screens for initial drafts, and pursuing side projects to foster curiosity. Kleon emphasizes that imitation is a necessary stage of development, provided the creator credits their sources and adds a personal perspective to the synthesis.

Creative hobbyists and professional artists read this book to overcome creative blocks and perfectionism. It is a guide for anyone struggling with the pressure to be entirely unique. Readers walk away with actionable habits for organizing their workspace, managing time during a day job, and building an online presence. The text provides a practical mindset for generating work by observing the world closely and allowing existing art to inform their own productive output.

Details

Published

2012

Language

EN