Synopsis

Steal Like An Artist by Austin Kleon is a playful and inspiring guide to unlocking your creative potential. The book challenges the conventional notion that creativity is about creating something entirely new, instead proposing that all creativity is a blend of influences from the work of others. Kleon’s central message is that it’s okay to “steal” ideas—by borrowing and remixing from a variety of sources, you can create something uniquely your own.

Through a series of simple, practical lessons, Kleon encourages readers to embrace influence, take risks, and overcome self-doubt. He shares actionable advice on how to stay creative, including the importance of daily practice, cultivating curiosity, and embracing limitations. The book is filled with quirky illustrations, quotes, and examples from artists, writers, and musicians, making it both fun and insightful.

Kleon’s advice is not about copying, but about finding inspiration from others' work and using it to fuel your own creations. Steal Like An Artist offers a refreshing perspective on creativity—one that celebrates the act of remixing, evolving, and transforming ideas rather than aiming for perfect originality. It’s a must-read for anyone looking to stay inspired and keep their creative juices flowing.

Charlie's view

Steal Like An Artist is a brilliant read for management teams looking to fuel their creative processes! Austin Kleon’s emphasis on borrowing and remixing ideas encourages teams to think beyond traditional boundaries and embrace the influence of others. In the world of business, innovation doesn’t always have to come from scratch—it can be inspired by the successful ideas and strategies around us.

Kleon’s advice is a perfect fit for team dynamics, as it fosters a collaborative environment where ideas are shared, built upon, and transformed into something new. For managers, it’s a reminder that creativity is a continuous process, not a one-time spark of genius. Teams can benefit from embracing different perspectives and remixing them into unique solutions.

What’s particularly valuable is Kleon’s focus on daily practice and experimentation, showing that consistency and curiosity are key. Steal Like An Artist is a fun, accessible guide that helps teams stay inspired and approach problems with fresh eyes and open minds!