Steal Like an Artist: A Summary of Austin Kleon's Creative Manifesto
Austin Kleon's Steal Like an Artist isn't a guide to intellectual property theft; it's a vibrant and inspiring manifesto urging creatives to embrace influence and build upon the work of others. The core message? Creativity isn't about originality in a vacuum; it's about remixing, repurposing, and transforming existing ideas into something new and uniquely your own.
Kleon argues that every artist, writer, musician, or designer builds upon the work that came before them. No one starts from scratch. Instead of fearing imitation, he encourages embracing it as a crucial step in the creative process. He uses the analogy of a "buffet" – you don't create the ingredients, but you assemble them in your own way to create a unique dish.
The book is divided into short, digestible chapters, each packed with insightful advice and engaging anecdotes. Key takeaways include:
1. Copy What You Love:
This isn't about direct plagiarism. It's about actively engaging with the work you admire, studying its elements, and understanding what makes it resonate with you. The process involves imitation, but with the goal of eventually developing your own unique style. Think of it as apprenticeship through observation and imitation.
2. Write the Book You Want to Read:
This principle applies broadly to all creative fields. If you crave a specific kind of work that's missing, create it! Don't wait for permission; be proactive and create the art you yearn to experience.
3. Share Your Work:
Creativity is a process of iteration and feedback. Kleon emphasizes the importance of sharing your work, not just for validation, but to solicit feedback, refine your process, and connect with your audience. The internet provides unprecedented opportunities for sharing and collaboration.
4. The Secret to Getting Better is Practice:
Just like any skill, creativity requires consistent effort and practice. Don't wait for inspiration to strike; start working and refine your craft through repetition and experimentation.
5. Learn to Ignore the Haters:
Focus on your work and your own creative vision. Negative feedback, particularly from those unfamiliar with your process, should be taken with a grain of salt.
6. The Importance of "Show Your Work!":
Kleon champions the idea of documenting your creative process and sharing your work-in-progress. This offers insight into the creative journey and connects with your audience on a more personal level. It's about transparency and community building.
How to Steal Like an Artist: Practical Applications
- Start a sketchbook: Record your ideas, sketches, and inspirations.
- Collect things: Gather images, quotes, and objects that inspire you.
- Make lists: Organize your ideas and resources.
- Collaborate: Work with others and learn from their perspectives.
- Build a portfolio: Showcase your work to potential clients or collaborators.
Steal Like an Artist is more than just a how-to guide; it's a creative pep talk. It’s a call to action for aspiring artists to embrace influence, share their work, and find their own unique voice within the vast tapestry of human creativity. It’s a book that fosters a sense of community and reminds us that great art is rarely created in isolation.
