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

Austin Kleon
3.96/5
- 2012
Creativity
Art
Self-help
This book is good to read when you feel inspired.

Key Takeaways

  1. Good artists copy, great artists steal; creativity is about transforming existing ideas into your unique expression.
  2. Creativity is everywhere, and everyone can tap into it by recognizing the value in others’ work and making it their own.
  3. Constraints and limitations are often an advantage in the creative process, pushing one to think differently and more creatively.
  4. Maintaining hobbies and interests outside of your professional work can fuel creativity and provide unexpected insights.
  5. Sharing your work and ideas with a community can foster creativity and provide critical feedback necessary for growth.

Summary

Kleon frames creativity as a communal and evolutionary process, debunking the myth of the lone genius with original ideas.

He provides practical advice on how to find inspiration from the work of others and incorporate it into your personal creative endeavors.

The book encourages an active and participatory approach to creativity, urging readers to engage with the world around them and incorporate their experiences and influences into their work.

'Steal Like an Artist' offers empowering insights into creativity that resonate with anyone looking to make art or live creatively in any aspect of their life.

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