Steal Like an Artist summary

So truly original art doesn’t exist. But surely that doesn’t mean you can just copy someone else’s work, does it?

Actually, it sort of does! You certainly can’t plagiarize someone else’s work by passing it off as your own, but copying someone is different – and a great way to start.

When you start on your path as an artist, you may be tempted to abandon your hobbies and side projects so you can fully immerse yourself in your work.

This may seem like a good idea, but limiting yourself in this way can actually hinder your productivity and happiness.

Do you want to be famous? Many of us certainly do. Some artists aim to find fame as soon as possible – but don’t go down this path. Gunning to become well-known in the long run is great, but when you first start, obscurity can actually help your career.

Obscurity gives you the chance to be creative and make mistakes. When people know you, every aspect of your work will be scrutinized. You’ll be under much more pressure to create “great” art. It’ll also be harder to experiment, because people will have expectations of you. If you try something new and it doesn’t work out, they’ll complain.

In the eighteenth century, when people wanted to be inspired by powerful art, they had to travel to the Mediterranean to see the great Renaissance statues and frescoes. Nowadays, you just have to turn on your computer or phone.

This means artists can view and create work from the comfort of their own homes. If you want to maximize your creativity, you need to carefully design your home environment.

The internet is a great tool for getting your creative juices flowing, but it also has its downsides. If you put your work online, you’ll have to deal with a lot of vitriol and criticism from people who don’t like you or your art.

When you get harassed or criticized, don’t let it bring you down and certainly don’t stop creating. Ignore the negativity, or turn your anger inward and let it inspire you.