Stealing Like an Artist: How to Build Something Truly Original

The world celebrates originality, but here’s a secret that creative masters have known for centuries: nothing is 100% original. Every artist, writer, and creator borrows from those who came before them. The difference lies in how they take inspiration and make it their own. As Picasso famously said, “Good artists copy; great artists steal.”

Here’s how you can learn to “steal like an artist” and create something unique by drawing from the best:

1. Borrow Widely, Not Narrowly

If you only copy from one person, it’s stealing. But if you borrow ideas from 100 people, it becomes research. The best ideas often come from connecting seemingly unrelated sources and combining them in novel ways.

Actionable Step: Pick three areas of interest (e.g., film, architecture, and nature). Study the best in each field and look for patterns or elements that resonate with you. How can you merge these ideas into your work?

2. Study the Masters

Every master was once a student. Dive deep into the works of those you admire. Understand their process, the problems they solved, and the techniques they used. Then, use their work as a foundation to build upon.

Actionable Step: Choose a favorite artist or creator and dissect one of their works. Ask yourself: What makes this work powerful? What would I do differently?

3. Remix, Don’t Replicate

Stealing like an artist means transforming your inspirations into something that feels uniquely yours. Instead of copying ideas verbatim, remix them. Add your perspective, twist the narrative, or reimagine the concept.

Actionable Step: Take an idea you love and put it in a different context. For example, adapt a classic story to a modern setting or turn a visual concept into a written one.

4. Embrace Your Influences

Your creative DNA is a mix of every book you’ve read, movie you’ve watched, and conversation you’ve had. Instead of hiding your influences, celebrate them. Acknowledging them will help you understand how they shape your perspective.

Actionable Step: Make a list of your top 10 influences in any field. Reflect on how they’ve impacted your style or ideas.

5. Copy to Learn, Then Let Go

Imitation is a powerful way to learn. When you mimic a master’s technique, you gain insight into their decision-making process. But don’t stop there—use this knowledge to create something new.

Actionable Step: Recreate a piece of work you admire. Then, change three major elements to make it your own.

6. Combine the Familiar with the Unfamiliar

Innovation often comes from juxtaposing the known with the unexpected. When you mix familiar concepts with new twists, you create something that feels fresh yet relatable.

Actionable Step: Brainstorm ways to combine two seemingly unrelated ideas. For instance, what happens when you mix vintage aesthetics with futuristic technology?

7. Always Credit Your Sources

Stealing like an artist doesn’t mean plagiarism. Always acknowledge your inspirations and give credit where it’s due. Transparency not only builds trust but also invites others to explore your influences.

Actionable Step: Share your creative process openly. Include an “inspired by” section in your work to highlight your sources.

Eye-Openers to Remember:

• Creativity thrives on connection. Borrowing ideas is the first step to making them your own.
• Inspiration is everywhere; you just need to observe, study, and adapt.
• The more diverse your influences, the more original your work will feel.
• Combining and remixing ideas is the foundation of innovation.
• Celebrate your inspirations, but always add your unique touch.

Start exploring your influences and turning inspiration into creation today. Remember, every great artist started as a curious learner with a willingness to steal smartly and create boldly.

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