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Steal Like an Artist
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Stealing Like an Artist? Let’s Rethink That!
Have you ever heard the term “steal like an artist”? Sounds mischievous, right?
Yes, some expert artists and writers often frown upon this concept; criticizing their successors for mirroring their work or artistic style.
But let’s give it a second thought.
T.S. Eliot said,
Immature poets imitate; mature poets steal; bad poets deface what they take, and good poets make it into something better, or at least something different.
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Dodging New Writers’ Potholes
It’s important to remember that all accomplished artists and writers were once novices.
Imagine the parent who scolds their child for “immature” antics, forgetting that they themselves engaged in similar behaviors at that age, doesn’t look good, does it?
If you’re a newbie trying to find your style, you’re likely still in the “dodging potholes on the new writers’ curb,” phase.
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Embracing Their Style
These young predecessors — young artists, may be inspired by seasoned writers and may take a page out of their book to discern what makes their work special.
They blend their own writing style with elements from those they admire, honing their craft and finding their unique voice in the process.
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Nothing New Under the Sun
For my Christians, a Bible reference…
Ever heard Ecclesiastes 1:9?
There is nothing new under the sun.
Yup, even the Bible says so. Rather than being discouraged, this should inspire artists to engage with their creative community and add their own style to the mix.
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Want to find your voice on Medium and Other Platforms?
What’s your niche?
Find and explore the work of fellow writers in that space — join the conversation. Follow, Clap, Comment thoughtfully, and participate actively in these communities.
This adjustment period applies to all forms of creative expression. The world brims with creative energy and inspiration — waiting to be harnessed.
From Instagram theme pages to news narratives and beyond, everything builds upon existing concepts, even inventions!
Thomas Edison, among others, illuminated the world by bringing the existing concept of light — the sun — indoors to illuminate what natural light cannot reach. Drumroll please…the creation of the light bulb!
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Originality Is a Remix
William Ralph Inge once said,
What is originality? Undetected plagiarism.”
Take inspiration from others, remix it, and make it yours.
Dissecting the work of others can ignite your own ideas. Make them your muse and contribute to your own ‘originality.’
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Embracing Influence
Look at Colombian painter Botero. He took cues from David Hockney’s vibrant colorful palette and made it his own.
While Hockney depicted landscapes with bright hues reminiscent of a children’s storybook — Botero employed similar colors in more muted themes, as seen in comparing their works such as The Road to York Through Sledmere and Earthquake.
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Embrace Your Influence
If younger creators are riffing on your work, take it as a compliment! You’re shaping the next generation.
Embrace it as a testament to your influence.
“We are shaped and fashioned by what we love.”
~German Writer, Goethe
Set high standards and continue to strive for greatness.
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Finding Your Voice
Don’t sweat it if your work feels a little impersonal at first.
Finding your voice is a journey, and inspiration from others is a part of the process.
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So let me leave you with this:
Use your community as a springboard — bounce inspiration from them to craft your own unique style.
Keep CREATING, INSPIRING, and ADDING your flavor to the mix!
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