It’s starting to feel like autumn around here. We just brought in a good stash of firewood to prepare for the colder months.
A couple of days ago, when it was especially chilly and wet, we lit our first fire of the season. It was very comforting, watching the flames dance again and feeling the warmth spread through the room.
Today, I want to make some apple and cinnamon tea, and share with you another one of my favourite books.
I love all three of Austin Kleon’s books, but I’m going to start with his first one, Steal Like an Artist.
The central message of this book is that nothing is truly new—everything has been said or done before. However, there’s always the possibility of YOU saying something in your own unique way.
He quotes the French writer André Gide, saying:
Everything that needs to be said has already been said. But, since no one was listening, everything must be said again.”
In Steal Like an Artist, Austin Kleon shares 10 concepts that have helped him cultivate creativity over the years.
One of the practical suggestions he offers is to keep a swipe file.
This can be a physical file, a notebook, a Pinterest board—whatever works for you—where you gather quotes, ideas, and inspiration from artists and creators you admire.
It’s a bit like how I keep my idea books.
Since I’m a visual person, I find Pinterest also especially valuable for collecting ideas and inspiration. Craft projects, art ideas, drawing techniques—whatever your creative outlet is—it’s incredibly helpful to have a place where you can collect your favourite art prints, quotes, song lyrics, book excerpts, and photographs. Then, when you need a spark of inspiration, you have a personalized treasure trove to dive into.
So remember: creativity doesn’t mean starting from scratch. It’s about gathering inspiration from the world around you and making it your own in a way that’s uniquely yours.
If you decide to start a swipe file, or you have read “Steal like an Artist”, I’d love to hear about your thoughts in the comments below the video.
Until next time, stay creative and stay cosy. Thanks for reading/watching.
The Power of Idea Books for Multi-Passionate People