A Little Book Every Young Designer Should Read Every Year

Steal Like an Artist is a book that has been making waves in the creative world since its publication. The author, Austin Kleon, shares his thoughts on how to be more creative and productive in a concise and practical manner. Here are a few key takeaways from the book:

01.
Nothing is original.

Kleon stresses that everything we create has been influenced by something or someone else before us. He encourages readers to embrace this idea and use it to their advantage. Instead of focusing on trying to come up with something entirely new and original, Kleon suggests taking inspiration from other artists and incorporating those ideas into your own work.

02.
Be curious and always keep learning.

The author emphasizes the importance of being a perpetual student, always seeking out new information and experiences. Kleon recommends reading widely, attending events and workshops, and following other artists on social media. By constantly exposing yourself to new ideas and perspectives, you can broaden your horizons and develop your own unique creative voice.

03.
Creativity is a process.

Kleon argues that creativity is not just about having a spark of inspiration, but rather it is a process that involves hard work and dedication. He stresses the importance of setting aside time for creative pursuits and sticking to a regular routine to help cultivate a creative mindset. Additionally, Kleon encourages readers to embrace failure as part of the creative process and to use it as a learning opportunity.

04.
Share your work.

Finally, Kleon emphasizes the importance of sharing your work with others. He believes that creative work is meant to be shared and that doing so can lead to valuable feedback and new opportunities. Additionally, sharing your work can help motivate and inspire others, which can in turn further fuel your own creativity.

Steal Like an Artist is a valuable resource for anyone looking to tap into their creative potential. With its practical advice and inspiring messages, the book is a must-read for anyone looking to cultivate their creativity and turn their ideas into reality. I keep coming back to this one every couple of years to remind myself that “everything is a remix” and “there is nothing new under the sun” — this helps take some pressure off.

Watch Austin Kleon’s TEDx talk about how to Steal Like an Artist:
Steal Like an Artist: Austin Kleon at TEDxKC