How to Actually “Steal Like an Artist”
+ A Big Announcement!

If you’ve been around the creative world for more than a minute, you’ve probably heard the phrase “steal like an artist” a dozen times.

It actually comes from a popular book written by Austin Kleon— a book that I’ve recommended to creative entrepreneurs in any stage of the journey.

That phrase though— “Steal Like an Artist”..

It’s catchy, but it’s also wildly misunderstood.

So, let’s set the record straight.

When Austin Kleon dropped this wisdom on us in his book, he wasn’t giving anyone a free pass to rip off someone else’s work.

“Steal”, in this sense, doesn’t mean copying and pasting; it means observing, absorbing, and transforming.

It’s about understanding the “why” behind what you admire, not just the “what.”

It’s inspiration, not imitation.

The reality is that every creative idea we’ve ever had is built on someone else’s foundation.

It’s a remix of ideas, influences, and experiences, synthesized into something that’s uniquely ours. 

Think of it like adding your own spice to grandma’s famous recipe—it’s familiar, but with your signature twist.

But there is a right way to do this, and it starts with one key word: respect.

Respect the original creator by acknowledging their work and respecting yourself by pushing your creative limits.

If you see a transition in a video that makes your jaw drop, study it.

Break it down frame by frame.

But then, ask yourself: How can I make this my own? 

How can I take this spark and create something fresh, not just something recycled?

Here are three quick principles for stealing like a real artist:

1. Study the Greats, but Don’t Copy Them. 

   Learn the rules before you break them. Study your favorite filmmakers, designers, and creators—but don’t settle for being a second-rate version of them. Aim to be a first-rate version of yourself.

2. Combine and Remix. 

   Don’t just pull from one source. Pull from ten, twenty, fifty. Combine a bold color scheme from one artist with a storytelling approach from another. When you mix influences, the final product looks more like you than anyone else.

3. Add Value. 

   True creative theft leaves the world richer, not poorer. When you “steal” a technique or a concept, aim to elevate it—take it somewhere the original creator didn’t. This is how we contribute to the creative conversation instead of just repeating it.

So, if you’re worried about finding your voice or style, start stealing—but do it right.

Emulate your heroes.

Take inspiration, inject your soul, and make something new.

The world doesn’t need another copy; it needs you—in your truest, boldest, most creative form.

For over a year, my team and I have been working on something big— something that’ll help you to KEEP stealing like an artist.

It’s called OVERLAY, and it’s designed to help creatives like you—no matter your skill level—make videos that stand out.

And not only that— help you find your style.

This isn’t just another pack of trendy assets that go out of style in a few months.

This is a library of digital assets that YOU are a co-creator of, designed to grow with you and your creativity.

… and out of these popular digital asset platforms we found, it’s also the cheapest 😳

In a few days, I’m gonna send you a completely free sample pack to help you get started.

But for now, just know— your videos are about to get a major upgrade.

Stay bold and keep creating.

Landon ✌🏼

Get ready! OVERLAY is launching in…