My husband and I were browsing a gift shop recently and he suggested we buy this book. I don't usually buy books from gifts shops because they seem to be all about being pretty and not have much content. But we bought this one because it was about artists (of course), relevant looking content and some nice sketches. I've finished reading the book and I am so excited to share with you! There are so many take-a-ways from this book but a few of them that are strongest for me are:
* Nothing is completely original. It's the collection of what we like and admire, what we are made up of i.e. our history that influence us and therefore our art. It is this idea that the title refers.
* Don't spend so much time on the computer when designing. The only part of the body that is active when on the computer is the brain and fingers. Set up an analog work station (which I already have but don't use as much as my computer station) and spend more time using pen, paint, paper, etc.
This will allow us to use all the senses. "The computer brings out the uptight perfectionist in us - we start editing ideas before we have them." - This quote made me cringe and laugh at the same time because that's me!
* The above excerpt from Steal Like an Artist made me laugh because it's so true when I am going through the design process. It's just so comforting to know that it's not just me who have these thoughts and I need to remember to persevere in the Dark Night.
This book is for everyone who aspires to work through the process of being creative.