16 Best Austin Kleon Quotes

“Steal like an artist.”

This is the central thesis of the book, encouraging creators to draw inspiration from others' work, not by plagiarizing, but by studying, remixing, and transforming ideas into something new and personal.

“Nothing is original.”

Kleon argues that all creative work builds upon what came before. This line frees artists from the pressure of absolute originality, encouraging them to embrace influence and see their work as part of a larger continuum.

“Don't wait until you know who you are to start.”

This advice encourages aspiring creators to begin making things immediately, even if they haven't fully defined their style or identity. The act of creating is how one discovers their artistic self.

“Do good work and put it where people can see it.”

This is a fundamental call to action. It emphasizes both the quality of the creative output and the importance of sharing it with the world, rather than keeping it hidden, to foster connection and growth.

“Get a day job.”

Kleon advocates for having a stable source of income separate from creative pursuits. This reduces financial pressure on art, allowing creators to pursue their passions freely without the burden of making them profitable.

“Share your work.”

This instruction highlights the importance of putting creative output out into the world. Sharing allows for feedback, connection with an audience, and the potential for new opportunities and collaborations.

“The only way to find your voice is to use it.”

This emphasizes that an artist's unique style and perspective emerge through consistent practice and creation. It's not something found through introspection alone, but through active engagement with one's craft.

“Creativity is subtraction.”

Kleon suggests that limitations and constraints can actually foster creativity. By removing options or working within boundaries, artists are forced to be more inventive and resourceful with what they have.

“Use your hands.”

This encourages creators to engage in tactile, analog work, stepping away from screens. It promotes a different kind of thinking and problem-solving, often leading to unexpected discoveries and a deeper connection to the craft.

“Boredom is where great ideas are born.”

Kleon argues that in our constantly connected world, allowing oneself to be bored creates mental space for new ideas to emerge. It's a call to embrace quiet moments for creative incubation.

“Geography is no longer our master.”

This refers to the power of the internet to connect artists and creators regardless of their physical location. It allows for the formation of virtual communities and the sharing of work globally.

“Build your own world.”

This encourages creators to curate their environment, influences, and community to support their creative practice. It's about actively shaping the conditions that foster inspiration and productivity.

“Keep your side projects going.”

Kleon advises maintaining diverse creative interests outside of one's main work. These side projects can be sources of joy, experimentation, and unexpected breakthroughs that inform the primary creative path.

“Be nice. The world is a small town.”

This emphasizes the importance of kindness and generosity in the creative community. Building positive relationships and being supportive of others can lead to unexpected opportunities and a stronger network.

“Write the book you want to read.”

This encourages creators to produce the kind of work they themselves would enjoy consuming. It's about creating from a place of genuine passion and filling a perceived void in the creative landscape.

“Copying is about reverse-engineering. Stealing is about research.”

Kleon distinguishes between merely replicating and deeply understanding. Copying helps learn mechanics, while "stealing" involves researching influences, dissecting them, and transforming them into something new.