If you’re a designer, you’ve probably experienced the feeling of running out of creativity. “Steal Like an Artist”, by Austin Kleon, is a book that deconstructs the myth of originality and shows how creativity can be fueled by inspiration from different references. The author presents the idea that nothing is totally original and that all creative work is actually a combination of influences.
Kleon teaches that the key to being a good designer is not to create something from scratch, but to absorb references, reinterpret them and turn them into something new. He encourages readers to study the artists they admire and use this knowledge to develop their own style. In addition, the book offers practical tips on how to organize ideas, overcome creative blocks and maintain the motivation to keep creating.
Another important point covered in the book is the importance of experimenting and making mistakes. Many designers are afraid of failure, but Kleon points out that failure is part of the process of learning and improving. He suggests that designers create without fear of others’ judgment and use their experiences to continually evolve.
With a light-hearted approach and full of illustrations and impactful phrases, “Steal like an Artist” is a must-read for designers who want to better understand the creative process and learn how to feed their imagination efficiently. If you’re looking for an inspiring book to unlock your creativity and apply new ideas to your work, this is an excellent choice.
