Steal Like an Artist

Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon

Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon

Most of us will readily admit that we derive inspiration from the work of others (see the previous post), Austin Kleon puts it a little more boldly in his book, ‘Steal Like an Artist’. According to Austin we’re all thieves. Everybody does it, he claims and he quotes the bible as proof that nothing it orginal…Ecclesiastes 1:9, ‘There is nothing new under the sun.’ And, as he says, once you realize that you can never be completely original, you are free to accept the influence of others, filter it through your own prism and turn out work that is uniquely yours.

From that provocative first chapter the author proceeds to share a number of methods that will encourage you to develop your own creativity. Each succeeding chapter tackles an interesting method or approach, from encouraging copying, to maintaining other interests, sharing your work with others and just generally getting down to business. There is a saying I’ve been running across a lot lately…fake it ’till you make it, and Mr. Kleon espouses it as well. Start making art and keep at it until you find your way.

Its an interesting read and thought provoking. I’m keeping this one around, I can see it coming in handy next time I hit a creative wall.

2 Responses to Steal Like an Artist

  1. Sue Veeder says:

    Pat, thanks for posting this. I’ve learned so much about my own creativity in the last couple of years and it seems like every time I
    turn around, there is something new that I want to try!

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