Graphic Design Blog

I recently picked up a great little book by Austin Kleon entitled, Steal like an Artist : 10 things nobody told you about being creative. It’s a beautifully designed collection of quotations, musings and advice, presented with a lovely mix of handwritten type and imagery.

I’m also delighted to see it includes what I think is my favourite quote of all time, from film director Jim Jarmusch:

Nothing is original. Steal from anywhere that resonates with inspiration or fuels your imagination. Devour old films, new films, music, books, paintings, photographs, poems, dreams, random conversations, architecture, bridges, street signs, trees, clouds, bodies of water, light and shadows. Select only things to steal from that speak directly to your soul. If you do this, your work (and theft) will be authentic. Authenticity is invaluable; originality is non-existent. And don’t bother concealing your thievery – celebrate it if you feel like it. In any case, always remember what Jean-Luc Godard said: “It’s not where you take things from – it’s where you take them to.

It’s an essential read for a short trip, if only to reinvigorate your creative juices. The ten steps to ‘unlock your creativity’ are worth the cover price – I promise you.