Austin Kleon
Biography
Austin Kleon is a New York Times bestselling author and artist celebrated for his insightful books on creativity in the digital age. Born in 1983, he is renowned for his unique blend of hand-drawn illustrations, found text, and original thoughts, presented in an engaging and accessible style. His popular 'Steal Like An Artist' trilogy—comprising 'Steal Like An Artist,' 'Show Your Work!,' and 'Keep Going'—offers practical advice for creatives. Kleon advocates for embracing influences, sharing ongoing work, and cultivating resilience. His philosophy demystifies creativity, presenting it not as a mystical gift but as a learnable, shareable process of continuous effort and iteration. Living in Austin, Texas, he continues to inspire a global audience of artists, writers, and anyone seeking to foster a more creative and fulfilling life.
Selected Thoughts
«Steal like an artist; don't steal like a plagiarist.»
«Don't wait until you know who you are to start something.»
«The only way to find your voice is to use it.»
Writing Style
Kleon's writing style is concise, direct, and conversational, making complex ideas accessible. He frequently integrates his own hand-drawn illustrations, diagrams, and found elements (like blackout poetry) directly into his texts, creating a highly visual and engaging reading experience. His tone is encouraging and practical, offering actionable advice rather than abstract theory, often infused with humor and relatable anecdotes.