Steal Like an Artist

Austin Kleon

10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative

17 min

Summary

In 'Steal Like an Artist', Austin Kleon presents a manifesto for creativity in the digital age, emphasizing that creativity is not a solitary act but rather a collaborative process rooted in influence and inspiration. The book is structured around ten transformative ideas that encourage readers to embrace their influences, pursue their passions, and cultivate their creativity. The central premise is that nothing is original; instead, all creative work is a remix of existing ideas. By acknowledging this, artists can free themselves from the pressure of originality and focus on developing their unique voice. The importance of influence is further emphasized, with Kleon suggesting that creators should actively seek out and learn from the work of those who inspire them. This can be done through creating a 'swipe file'—a collection of inspiring works that serve as a source of motivation and guidance. Side projects and hobbies play a crucial role in nurturing creativity, as they provide opportunities for experimentation and exploration outside of one's main work. Engaging in these activities can lead to unexpected insights and innovations that enrich the primary creative endeavor. The book also highlights the idea of using constraints to fuel creativity. Limitations can enhance creative thinking by forcing individuals to find innovative solutions and work with what they have. Kleon encourages readers to embrace their constraints and view them as opportunities for growth. Additionally, the importance of being nice and working hard is underscored, as success in creative fields often hinges on attitude and effort. Building relationships and putting in the necessary work to hone one's craft are essential for achieving creative aspirations. Kleon also emphasizes that creativity often involves subtraction rather than addition. In a world filled with distractions, simplifying ideas can lead to more impactful work. By focusing on what truly matters, creators can enhance the clarity and effectiveness of their message. Finally, the book concludes with the idea that the creative life is a journey, not a destination. Embracing the process of creation fosters resilience and adaptability, allowing individuals to navigate the ups and downs of their creative endeavors. Overall, 'Steal Like an Artist' serves as a practical guide for anyone looking to unlock their creativity and find fulfillment in the act of creating.

The 7 key ideas of the book

1. The Creative Life is a Journey

The final key idea is that the creative life is a journey, not a destination. The author encourages readers to embrace the process of creation and to view it as an ongoing exploration. This perspective fosters resilience and adaptability, as individuals learn to navigate the ups and downs of their creative endeavors. The author emphasizes the importance of enjoying the journey and finding fulfillment in the act of creating, rather than fixating solely on the end results. This idea encourages readers to cultivate a mindset of growth and to celebrate their progress along the way.

The notion that the creative life is a journey rather than a destination invites individuals to shift their focus from merely achieving end goals to embracing the entire process of creation. This perspective is crucial for fostering a healthy and sustainable creative practice. By recognizing that creativity is not a linear path with a defined endpoint, individuals can appreciate the myriad experiences, challenges, and lessons that arise along the way.

Engaging in creative endeavors often comes with a series of ups and downs, and understanding that this is a natural part of the journey can cultivate resilience. When creators encounter obstacles, setbacks, or moments of self-doubt, they can draw strength from the knowledge that these experiences are integral to their development. Instead of viewing failures as definitive endpoints, individuals can see them as valuable learning opportunities that contribute to their growth.

Moreover, this journey-centric perspective encourages adaptability. As creators navigate their artistic paths, they may find that their interests evolve, their skills develop, or their artistic voices change. By being open to these transformations, individuals can embrace new directions and ideas, allowing their creativity to flourish in unexpected ways. This adaptability not only enriches the creative process but also helps individuals remain engaged and motivated in their pursuits.

Celebrating progress along the way is another vital aspect of this journey. Often, individuals become so fixated on the final product that they overlook the significance of the small victories and incremental improvements they make. By taking the time to acknowledge and celebrate these milestones, creators can cultivate a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction in their work. This celebration of progress reinforces the idea that every step taken is valuable, regardless of the outcome.

Ultimately, embracing the creative journey fosters a mindset of growth. Individuals are encouraged to approach their work with curiosity, openness, and a willingness to experiment. This mindset not only enhances the creative experience but also leads to richer and more authentic expressions of self. By focusing on the journey, creators can find joy in the act of creating itself, leading to a more meaningful and rewarding artistic life.

2. Creativity is Subtraction

The sixth idea is that creativity often involves subtraction rather than addition. The author suggests that in a world filled with distractions and noise, simplifying ideas can lead to more impactful work. By focusing on what truly matters and eliminating the unnecessary, creators can enhance the clarity and effectiveness of their message. This idea encourages readers to practice discernment in their creative process, honing in on the core elements that resonate with them and their audience. The author provides examples of how simplifying complex ideas can lead to greater understanding and engagement.

Creativity is often misconceived as a process of adding more elements, ideas, or features to a concept. However, a deeper understanding reveals that true creativity frequently involves the act of subtraction. In an age where information overload and distractions abound, the ability to distill ideas down to their essence becomes a vital skill for creators. This notion emphasizes that by stripping away the superfluous and focusing on the core components, one can create work that is not only more impactful but also more resonant with the intended audience.

The emphasis on subtraction invites creators to engage in a thoughtful process of discernment. This means evaluating each aspect of their work and questioning its necessity. Are all the details essential to the message being conveyed? Is there a way to communicate the idea more clearly by removing extraneous elements? This reflective practice encourages a deeper connection with the audience, as it often leads to a clearer and more focused message that can be easily understood and appreciated.

Moreover, the concept of simplifying complex ideas is not merely about making things easier to digest; it’s about enhancing the clarity and effectiveness of communication. When creators eliminate unnecessary complexity, they allow their core ideas to shine through. This can result in a more engaging experience for the audience, as they are not bogged down by irrelevant details. By honing in on what truly matters, creators can foster a stronger emotional connection and provoke thought, leading to a more significant impact.

Examples abound in various fields where simplification has led to success. Consider the world of design, where minimalist aesthetics often lead to more powerful visual communication. In writing, authors who can convey profound ideas in straightforward language tend to resonate more deeply with readers. In technology, products that prioritize user experience by eliminating unnecessary features often outperform their more complex counterparts.

Ultimately, the practice of subtraction in creativity is about recognizing that less can indeed be more. It encourages creators to embrace simplicity as a powerful tool in their arsenal, allowing them to convey their messages with clarity and precision. By focusing on the essentials and removing the clutter, they can craft work that not only captures attention but also leaves a lasting impression. This approach fosters an environment where creativity can flourish, unencumbered by the noise of excess, leading to innovative and meaningful contributions to the world.

3. Be Nice, Work Hard

The fifth key idea is the importance of being nice and working hard. The author emphasizes that success in any creative field is not just about talent, but also about attitude and effort. Building relationships and being kind to others can open doors and create opportunities. Additionally, hard work is essential in honing one's craft and achieving goals. This idea encourages readers to cultivate a positive mindset and to put in the necessary effort to develop their skills and achieve their creative aspirations. The author underscores the value of collaboration and community in the creative process.

The concept of being nice and working hard is a fundamental principle that resonates deeply within the creative community. It suggests that while innate talent and creativity are important, they are not the sole determinants of success. Instead, one's attitude and the effort they put into their work play a crucial role in achieving their goals.

Being nice is not merely about being polite or friendly; it encompasses a broader range of behaviors that foster positive relationships. In the creative field, where collaboration and networking are vital, kindness can be a powerful tool. When you treat others with respect and generosity, you create an environment where ideas can flourish, and mutual support can thrive. This can lead to unexpected opportunities, whether it's through collaborations, referrals, or simply being remembered favorably by others in your industry. The notion here is that a reputation for kindness can enhance one's professional network, making it easier to navigate the often competitive landscape of creative work.

Working hard is equally essential. Talent alone does not guarantee success; it must be coupled with relentless effort and dedication. The process of honing one's craft requires countless hours of practice, experimentation, and perseverance. This hard work is what transforms raw talent into skill and expertise. The idea emphasizes that there are no shortcuts to mastery; it is the consistent application of effort over time that leads to significant improvement and achievement.

Furthermore, the importance of a positive mindset cannot be overstated. Cultivating an attitude that embraces challenges, learns from failures, and remains open to feedback is crucial for growth in any creative endeavor. This mindset not only enhances personal development but also contributes to a collaborative spirit within the creative community. When individuals approach their work with enthusiasm and a willingness to learn, they inspire others to do the same, fostering a culture of creativity and innovation.

In essence, the combination of being nice and working hard creates a synergy that can propel individuals forward in their creative journeys. It encourages readers to recognize that their interactions with others and their commitment to their craft are interlinked. By nurturing relationships and putting in the necessary work, they can unlock new possibilities and achieve their artistic aspirations. This holistic approach to creativity emphasizes that success is not just about individual talent but also about how one engages with the world and contributes to the collective creative landscape.

4. Use Your Constraints

The fourth idea is about using constraints to fuel creativity. The author posits that limitations—whether they are time, resources, or skills—can actually enhance creativity by forcing individuals to think outside the box. When faced with constraints, creators are often pushed to find innovative solutions and to work with what they have. This idea encourages readers to embrace their limitations and to see them as opportunities for creative problem-solving. The author provides examples of artists and creators who thrived under constraints, illustrating how limitations can lead to unique and impactful work.

The concept of leveraging constraints as a catalyst for creativity revolves around the notion that limitations can actually serve as a powerful driving force for innovation and originality. In many creative fields, individuals often encounter various forms of constraints, whether they are related to time, financial resources, skill sets, or even the tools available to them. Rather than viewing these constraints as hindrances that stifle creativity, the perspective presented encourages embracing them as opportunities to think differently and explore unconventional solutions.

When creators are faced with limitations, they are compelled to step outside their comfort zones and engage in problem-solving that might not occur in an environment of abundance. This necessity can lead to a more focused approach, where individuals are required to prioritize their ideas and resources, ultimately honing their creative process. The act of working within boundaries can spark innovative thinking, as creators are forced to reconsider traditional methods and explore new avenues that they might not have considered otherwise.

The idea is further illustrated through various examples of artists, musicians, writers, and other creators who have thrived under specific constraints. For instance, some renowned filmmakers have produced impactful work with minimal budgets, leading to unique storytelling techniques that may not have emerged in a more financially comfortable setting. Similarly, musicians might create compelling compositions using only a limited set of instruments or even unconventional sounds, resulting in a distinctive auditory experience that stands out in the music landscape.

By embracing the idea of constraints, creators can develop a mindset that views limitations as a fertile ground for experimentation and growth. This shift in perspective can lead to a more resilient and adaptive approach to creativity, where individuals learn to work with what they have rather than lamenting what they lack. Ultimately, the emphasis is on the transformative power of constraints, highlighting how they can inspire originality and lead to the creation of work that is not only unique but also deeply personal and meaningful. This approach encourages a sense of freedom within boundaries, allowing for exploration and innovation to flourish in unexpected ways.

5. Side Projects and Hobbies are Important

The third key idea is the significance of side projects and hobbies in nurturing creativity. The author argues that engaging in activities outside of one's main work can lead to unexpected insights and innovations. These side projects provide a space for experimentation and play, allowing individuals to explore new ideas without the pressure of perfection. This idea encourages readers to pursue their passions and interests, as they can often inform and enrich their primary creative endeavors. The author cites examples of successful individuals who maintained side projects that ultimately contributed to their main body of work.

The concept of side projects and hobbies being crucial to nurturing creativity emphasizes the importance of diversifying one's creative outlets beyond the primary focus of work. Engaging in side projects allows individuals to step away from the constraints and pressures associated with their main professional responsibilities. This separation can create a fertile ground for experimentation, where the fear of failure is diminished, and the spirit of playfulness can flourish.

By dedicating time to pursuits that may not be directly related to one's primary career, individuals often discover new techniques, perspectives, and ideas that can enrich their main work. These side projects serve as a sandbox for testing out novel concepts without the weight of expectations that often come with professional projects. The freedom to explore and innovate in a less formal environment can lead to unexpected breakthroughs that can be integrated into one's primary creative endeavors.

Moreover, the act of pursuing personal interests can provide a much-needed mental break from routine tasks, allowing for mental rejuvenation and clarity. This rejuvenation can spark inspiration and lead to a more profound engagement with one's main work. The author illustrates this idea by referencing various successful figures who engaged in side projects that, while seemingly unrelated, ultimately influenced and enhanced their primary contributions.

For instance, a writer might take up painting or music, finding that the creative processes involved in these hobbies inform their writing style or narrative structure. Similarly, a software developer might delve into graphic design, leading to a more intuitive understanding of user experience in their main projects.

The encouragement to pursue hobbies and side projects is not merely about filling time or seeking distraction; it is about recognizing that creativity is not a linear path. Instead, it is a web of interconnected ideas and experiences that can be cultivated through varied interests. This approach fosters a mindset that values exploration and curiosity, which are essential for sustained creativity and innovation.

Ultimately, the argument is that by allowing oneself the freedom to engage in diverse creative activities, individuals can cultivate a richer, more dynamic creative practice that not only enhances their primary work but also leads to personal fulfillment and growth.

6. Embrace Influence

The second idea revolves around the importance of embracing influence. The author suggests that instead of trying to be completely original, one should identify the artists and works that inspire them and learn from them. This process of studying the masters allows creators to develop their own style and voice. By understanding the techniques and approaches of others, individuals can build a foundation for their own creative journey. This idea encourages readers to create a 'swipe file'—a collection of inspiring works that resonate with them, which can serve as a source of motivation and guidance.

The concept of embracing influence is pivotal in understanding the creative process. It challenges the common misconception that originality is the hallmark of true artistry. Instead of striving for an unattainable level of originality, individuals are encouraged to recognize that all creative work is built upon the foundations laid by those who came before. This perspective acknowledges that influence is not something to be shunned or hidden; rather, it should be embraced as an essential part of the artistic journey.

To effectively embrace influence, one must first identify the artists, writers, musicians, and thinkers who resonate deeply with them. This involves introspection and self-discovery, as it requires individuals to reflect on the works that have sparked joy, inspiration, or curiosity in their lives. By pinpointing these influences, creators can begin to understand the elements that appeal to them—be it style, technique, subject matter, or emotional resonance.

Once these influences are recognized, the next step is to engage with them on a deeper level. This means studying the techniques and methodologies employed by these artists. It is not merely about passive consumption; rather, it involves active analysis and exploration. By dissecting how these creators approach their craft, individuals can glean valuable insights that inform their own practice. This could involve examining the structure of a piece, the use of color, the rhythm of language, or the thematic choices made by the artist.

The idea of creating a 'swipe file' is a practical application of this concept. A swipe file serves as a personal archive of inspiration, where one can collect images, quotes, articles, or any other forms of creative work that resonate. This file acts as a resource that can be revisited during moments of creative block or uncertainty. It serves not only as a source of motivation but also as a reminder of the influences that shape one’s artistic identity. By curating this collection, individuals can continuously engage with their sources of inspiration, allowing them to draw upon these influences as they develop their unique voice.

Furthermore, embracing influence is about understanding that creativity is often collaborative in nature. Many artists draw from a shared cultural pool, remixing and reinterpreting existing ideas to create something new. This interconnectedness highlights the importance of community and dialogue in the creative process. By engaging with other artists and their works, individuals can expand their perspectives, challenge their assumptions, and ultimately enrich their own creative output.

In essence, embracing influence is not about copying or imitating; it is about learning, adapting, and evolving. It invites creators to honor their inspirations while forging their own paths. This approach ultimately leads to a more authentic expression of one’s artistic identity, as it is rooted in a rich tapestry of influences that have been thoughtfully integrated into one’s unique vision.

7. Nothing is Original

The first key idea is that nothing is truly original. Every creative work is influenced by what came before it. This concept encourages artists and creators to acknowledge their influences and to see inspiration in the works of others. Instead of fearing imitation, one should embrace it. This idea promotes the understanding that creativity is a remix of existing ideas and that by studying and borrowing from others, one can create something new and unique. The author emphasizes that the best artists are those who are able to steal ideas and transform them into something that reflects their own voice and vision.

The notion that nothing is original serves as a foundational principle in the creative process. It suggests that every piece of art, literature, music, or any form of creative expression is built upon the ideas, styles, and techniques that have preceded it. This perspective is liberating for artists and creators, as it allows them to recognize that they are part of an ongoing dialogue within their field rather than isolated individuals striving for complete originality.

Embracing the idea that nothing is original encourages creators to actively seek out and study the works of others. This does not imply that one should simply copy or plagiarize; rather, it highlights the importance of understanding existing influences and drawing inspiration from them. In this way, artists can acknowledge their sources while simultaneously crafting their own unique interpretations. It is through this process of borrowing and remixing that new and innovative ideas emerge.

The concept challenges the traditional notion of originality, which often places undue pressure on creators to produce something entirely new and unprecedented. Instead, it reframes creativity as a collaborative and iterative process. By viewing inspiration as a form of homage rather than theft, artists can feel more comfortable exploring and experimenting with different styles and ideas. This mindset fosters a sense of freedom and exploration, allowing for a more authentic expression of one's voice and vision.

Moreover, the best artists are often those who can adeptly navigate the line between influence and originality. They possess the ability to take existing ideas, infuse them with their own experiences and perspectives, and transform them into something that resonates on a personal level. This transformation process is where true creativity occurs; it is not merely about replication but about recontextualization and innovation.

In essence, the acknowledgment that nothing is original encourages a mindset of curiosity and openness. It invites creators to delve into the vast landscape of artistic expression, to learn from the masters, and to engage with the works that inspire them. This approach not only enriches their own creative practice but also contributes to the broader artistic community, which thrives on the sharing and evolution of ideas. By embracing the influences of the past and present, artists can carve out their own unique paths and contribute to the ever-evolving tapestry of creativity.

For who is recommended this book?

This book is ideal for artists, writers, musicians, designers, entrepreneurs, and anyone involved in creative endeavors. It is particularly beneficial for individuals seeking to overcome creative blocks, find inspiration, and develop their unique voice. Additionally, those interested in understanding the collaborative nature of creativity and the importance of influence will find valuable insights in this book.