Cover of Steal Like an Artist

Creativity

Steal Like an Artist

4.0 out of 5, from 404 ratings from Hardcover readers

Austin Kleon offers ten short, illustrated principles on creativity, arguing that artists build their work from influences and that you should start making things now, not wait until you are ready.

Facts last checked 2026-10-17

First published
2012
Pace
Fast
Length
Short
Pages
160
Format
Standalone

Read this if you feel blocked or intimidated and want a quick, encouraging push to create.

Skip this if you want in-depth theory or a detailed creative process.

The feel

Content warnings

None noted yet.

Quick answers about Steal Like an Artist

What is Steal Like an Artist about?
Austin Kleon offers ten short, illustrated principles on creativity, arguing that artists build their work from influences and that you should start making things now, not wait until you are ready.
Who should read Steal Like an Artist?
Read it if you feel blocked or intimidated and want a quick, encouraging push to create. Skip it if you want in-depth theory or a detailed creative process.
How long and how fast is Steal Like an Artist?
It is a fast-paced, short read of about 160 pages, first published in 2012.
Does Steal Like an Artist have content warnings?
We have not noted any content warnings for this book yet.
Can I borrow Steal Like an Artist for free?
Often, yes. Check Libby (OverDrive) to see whether your library lends Steal Like an Artist; the borrow button above searches it for you.

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