Series Part II - Unleashing the Art Thief

So, we've always been told that in the world of art, copying is the ultimate sin, right?

Artists are supposed to be these lone wolves, birthing ideas that are untarnished by the world.

But, Austin Kleon, in his radical book "Steal Like An Artist," urges us to reconsider this viewpoint.

1. Why the Bad Rep for 'Art Theft'?

In the past, society and culture taught us that artists should be standalone islands, untouched by the creative waves of others.

Copying was the ultimate evil, possibly leading to scandal, or worse, banishment from the artistic society. Modern copyright laws just cemented this negative image of 'art theft.'

We've held this belief that originality in art was sacrosanct.

But is it?

2. Enter Austin Kleon

Kleon's "Steal Like An Artist" flips the script. He says that borrowing ideas isn't just cool, it's essential.

He argues that creativity isn't born in a vacuum; it's the product of blending, reshaping, and transforming existing ideas.

Picture this - creating art is like whipping up a unique cocktail, mixing this idea, a splash of that, and voila, you have something unique!

3. The Creative Mix-n-Match

Creativity isn't a one-way street to originality. It's more like a concoction, a cocktail of ideas mixed and remixed.

Many modern artists interweave influences, creating pieces that are a rich, diverse, yet unique reflection of themselves.

And it's not just limited to paintings or sculptures - music, literature, film - they all plug into this creative cocktail blender.

Creativity isn't just a hop, skip, and jump to originality. It's like mixing a cocktail of ideas.

Take contemporary artists, for example. Many weave in influences, creating pieces that are diverse yet distinctly their own.

And it's not just about paintings or sculptures; music, literature, film - they all tap into this creative cocktail magic.

4. History’s Got Kleon's Back

Art history is practically a love letter to borrowed ideas.

Remember the Renaissance? Artists were remixing and reimagining like there was no tomorrow!

Think chiaroscuro, that technique of dramatic light and shadow contrasts.

Bigwigs like Leonardo da Vinci and Caravaggio took it, tweaked it, and made it their own.

So, "borrowing" ideas has always been fueling artistic evolution.

5. Rules of the Game

Wait a minute, though. We're not saying, "Go steal and forget to give credit."

Respect and acknowledgment for others' work are non-negotiable.

The line between creative borrowing and plagiarism might be thin, but it exists.

It's crucial to tip your hat to the original creator - it's not just polite, it's essential!

6. The Delicate Dance of Inspiration and Originality

It's all about finding that balance. Yes, borrowed ideas can enrich your work, but your individual voice must shine through.

Your unique perspective is what gives your art its depth and authenticity.

And remember, borrowing is not just about taking – it's also about contributing to the conversation, evolving ideas, and fostering growth within the creative community.

Ready to get your dance shoes on?

In a nutshell, Kleon invites us to see 'art theft' in a whole new light. So, let's keep our minds open and start borrowing, shall we?