Steal Like an Artist

Steal Like an Artist presents ten principles for creative work in the digital age, based on Austin Kleon's viral speech to college students. The book combines practical advice with illustrations, poems, and newspaper cutouts to demonstrate methods for generating ideas and producing creative work. The core message centers on the concept that originality stems from strategic imitation - studying, combining, and transforming influences from admired creators. Through direct, actionable steps, Kleon outlines how to develop a creative practice by collecting inspiration, maintaining productive habits, and sharing work with others. The text takes a minimalist approach, using sparse black-and-white visuals and concise statements to convey its ideas. At 160 pages, it serves as a quick reference guide rather than an exhaustive creative manual. The work speaks to fundamental questions about originality, influence, and the nature of creativity in an era of endless digital access to inspiration. Its enduring impact stems from challenging conventional notions about artistic innovation and authenticity.

Readers describe this as a quick, practical guide that validates creative borrowing and remixing of ideas. Many highlight its casual, sketchbook-style format and memorable quotes. What readers liked: - Makes creativity feel accessible and removes pressure to be completely original - Short length allows for quick re-reading when motivation is needed - Visual presentation helps reinforce key concepts - Practical action steps rather than just theory What readers disliked: - Too basic for experienced creatives - Content could fit in a blog post - Repeats common creative advice - Some find it oversimplified One reader noted: "It gave me permission to stop trying to be completely original and start learning from others' work." Another said: "Nothing groundbreaking here - just familiar advice in a pretty package." Ratings: Goodreads: 4.1/5 (191,000+ ratings) Amazon: 4.6/5 (4,900+ ratings) Barnes & Noble: 4.6/5 (300+ ratings)

Show Your Work! by Austin Kleon A guide for artists to build an audience by sharing their creative process and connecting with others through their work.

Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert This book explores the nature of inspiration and creativity while providing insights into the creative process through personal stories and practical wisdom.

The War of Art by Steven Pressfield A examination of creative resistance and the inner battles artists face when pursuing their craft.

Keep Going by Austin Kleon A roadmap for sustaining creativity through establishing routines, managing energy, and maintaining focus during challenging times.

The Creative Habit by Twyla Tharp A master choreographer shares concrete exercises and examples from her career to demonstrate how creativity functions as a disciplined practice rather than sporadic inspiration.

🎨 The original "Steal Like an Artist" drawings were created on index cards during Kleon's lunch breaks at a library where he worked. 📚 The book grew from a popular blog post that went viral after Kleon gave a talk to students at Broome Community College in 2011. 💡 Kleon's concept of "productive procrastination" suggests keeping multiple projects going simultaneously, allowing creative ideas to cross-pollinate. 🌐 The book has been translated into over 25 languages and has sold more than a million copies worldwide since its publication in 2012. 🎵 Before becoming an author, Austin Kleon worked as a librarian, web designer, and advertising copywriter - experiences that shaped his perspective on creative "theft" across different mediums.