Austin Kleon

Austin Kleon's Substack offers weekly insights on art, creativity, and personal growth, emphasizing the importance of nature, reading, creative practice, and building meaningful connections. Recurring themes include finding joy in small things, self-reflection, innovative workspaces, and the power of sharing and community in artistic endeavors.

Art and Creativity Personal Growth The Creative Process Reading and Literature Community and Connections Self-Reflection Nature and Environment

The hottest Substack posts of Austin Kleon

And their main takeaways

The Goldilocks theory of creativity

119 implied HN points • 07 May 21
🎭️ Culture Creativity Writing Art Architecture Music
  1. The Goldilocks theory of creativity suggests that we find the right balance between too much and too little stress in life when being creative. It's about finding that perfect spot that inspires us to create without feeling overwhelmed.
  2. Making something, even if it's not perfect, is often better than striving for an ideal. Starting with a rough draft or just creating anything can help get your creative juices flowing.
  3. When life gets tough or too easy, it can affect our ability to work creatively. Sometimes, a little challenge can make creating more enjoyable and rewarding.

Questions for a new technology

99 implied HN points • 20 Aug 21
🕹 Technology Innovation Art Media Books Culture Creativity
  1. When considering new technology, it's important to ask thoughtful questions about its impact.
  2. Art often demands both sacrifice and risk, and embracing this can lead to greater creativity.
  3. It's essential to cultivate your passions and interests, much like tending to a garden for personal growth.

Pretend I’m dead

99 implied HN points • 09 Jul 21
📚 Literature Writing Books Authors Narrative Cultural critique
  1. Reading books about writing can be a fun way to avoid actually writing while still feeling productive. It's like pretending to care about writing without doing it.
  2. Attention can be interpreted differently in various languages, suggesting that how we think about focusing on things can change based on culture. This shows how language influences our perception.
  3. The idea that the year can feel either half full or half empty is a nice reminder to look at life positively. It really depends on your perspective!

First we read, then we write

99 implied HN points • 28 May 21
📚 Literature Reading Writing Books Authors Publishing
  1. To write well, it's important to read a lot first. Reading helps improve writing skills and creativity.
  2. Keeping track of your reading materials can boost your productivity. Good indexing and filing systems let you find and use your resources easily.
  3. Old books have timeless insights. They remind us that human experiences are often funny and relatable, even centuries later.

Spin art

99 implied HN points • 21 May 21
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Comics Poetry Media
  1. Centripetal and centrifugal forces are important in our creative work. They help balance how we gather ideas and how we put them into action.
  2. Having a good indexing and filing system is crucial for keeping track of ideas. If you can’t find your ideas, they won’t be useful.
  3. Seeing new growth outside can bring hope. It reminds us that even in difficult times, there can be signs of renewal and positivity.
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Read like an artist

99 implied HN points • 14 May 21
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Media Creativity Music
  1. A new book club called 'Read Like An Artist' is being started to explore books that inspire creativity. It's a fun way to discover new ideas and thoughts on living a creative life.
  2. Reading can be approached in many ways, like reading more than one book at a time or enjoying old books. These different methods can make the reading experience richer and more enjoyable.
  3. Books, like people, need care and attention to thrive. Giving them fresh air and sunshine is a nice way to think about how to engage with literature.

100 things that made my year

119 implied HN points • 01 Jan 21
🎭️ Culture Art Music Literature Media Personal
  1. Reflecting on the past year can help you appreciate the good moments. Making a list of 100 things that made your year can be a fun and rewarding exercise.
  2. Sharing recommendations like great books or music can inspire others. It’s a nice way to connect and spread positivity.
  3. A new year is a fresh start for many people. Setting resolutions or challenges can motivate you to achieve new goals.

The Four Energies

79 implied HN points • 01 Oct 21
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Film Writing Creativity
  1. October is a month for cozy things like scary movies and stories, bringing a fun spooky vibe to bedtime. It’s a great time to enjoy seasonal activities with family.
  2. Creative work can be driven by different feelings, like being happy, grateful, angry, or insulted. These emotions can really spark creativity and influence your work.
  3. Reading books can lead to deeper thoughts about their value. If you can sum up a book easily, you might wonder if it was worth your time in the first place.

10 good books I read this summer

79 implied HN points • 24 Sep 21
📚 Literature Books Reading Authors Writing Literary Criticism
  1. Reading good books can really inspire and help us through tough times. It's great to find a list of books that resonate with you.
  2. Creating and sharing your own projects, like a zine, can be a fun and rewarding experience. Plus, making it available for others to enjoy is special.
  3. Success can come with advice, like not being afraid to take breaks or 'disappear' for a while. It's important to prioritize your well-being.

Pandemic prayers

79 implied HN points • 27 Aug 21
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Music Media Design
  1. Creativity can come from personal expressions like blackout poetry. It’s a fun way to process thoughts and emotions, especially during tough times.
  2. Reading books that connect well can enhance understanding. Mixing different topics can spark new ideas and insights.
  3. Listening to interesting conversations or podcasts can offer valuable perspectives. They can deepen knowledge and inspire new ways of thinking.

How to eat a book

99 implied HN points • 05 Mar 21
📚 Literature Books Writing Reading Poetry Authors
  1. You can enjoy books more by engaging with them deeply, like thinking of them as something to 'eat'.
  2. Finding creativity can come from unexpected places, like trash or common experiences.
  3. It's important to keep practicing and challenging yourself to improve your skills, no matter how small the steps are.

Big mood

79 implied HN points • 26 Mar 21
🎭️ Culture Art Music Literature Media Personal
  1. It's normal to feel mixed emotions, like love and loathing, especially during tough times.
  2. Reading music books can be a comforting way to reset your mood when you're feeling low.
  3. Putting your work out into the world takes bravery, and it's important to understand the risks involved.

A fine strategy

59 implied HN points • 17 Sep 21
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Music Comedy Media
  1. Making imperfect or 'ugly' art is totally okay and can help when you're stuck. It can free you up to create more without pressure.
  2. Browsing books and other collections in person sparks creativity and learning. It's a great way to find inspiration that you might miss online.
  3. With the current supply chain issues, it's a smart idea to order books early, especially if you want them signed or personalized for gifts.

What does a seed look like?

59 implied HN points • 10 Sep 21
🎭️ Culture Arts Media Literature Music Film
  1. Seeds are important and can inspire creative work, like making zines about them.
  2. Fame can be tough for people, and it's common to feel lonely during uncertain times.
  3. Great stories can be found in books, TV shows, and movies that connect us and make us think.

Validation is for parking

59 implied HN points • 03 Sep 21
🎭️ Culture Music Literature Art Media Philosophy
  1. Lee Perry was an amazing music producer, and his album 'Heart of the Congos' is highly recommended.
  2. If you want to get good answers online, try posting a wrong answer instead of asking a question.
  3. Taking solo walks helps you notice more things around you, even if it feels a bit lonely.

Learn to play the fool

79 implied HN points • 12 Feb 21
🎭️ Culture Lifelong learning Art Music Literature Creativity
  1. Being a lifelong learner means being okay with looking foolish sometimes. It's part of the learning process.
  2. Exploring outside the usual online algorithms can lead to fresh ideas. Don't limit yourself to what's popular.
  3. Sharing your work can have a big impact on your life. It helps connect you with others and opens up new opportunities.

I’ve got an idea

79 implied HN points • 29 Jan 21
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Music Education Personal Growth
  1. Thinking about stuttering as a shared experience can change how we approach it, focusing on silence and its importance as a space for new things to emerge.
  2. Books like _The Poetics of Space_ and _Range_ offer valuable insights that can help us understand our world better.
  3. Honoring the legacies of creators, like Cicely Tyson, reminds us of their wisdom and the importance of being true to ourselves.

What to do with your feelings

59 implied HN points • 13 Aug 21
🎭️ Culture Arts Literature Emotions Media Self-help
  1. Feelings are a normal part of being human, and it's important to acknowledge them. You can channel your emotions into your creative work for a productive outlet.
  2. Surprise can help you see things from a new perspective. Being open to unexpected moments can enrich your understanding of life.
  3. Reading can greatly influence your thoughts about life and creativity. Exploring different ideas through books can inspire new ways of thinking.

Curiosity is not a luxury

59 implied HN points • 06 Aug 21
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Media Creativity Education
  1. Curiosity is essential, not just a nice-to-have. It's important to recognize what we don't know and be open to uncertainty.
  2. Reading and sharing good books and art can spark inspiration and ignite our creativity.
  3. Exploring new ways of creating, like using vegetables for printmaking, can be a fun and engaging way to express ourselves.

A snow day in Texas

79 implied HN points • 15 Jan 21
🎭️ Culture Books Art Music Gaming Film
  1. Winter is a great time for enjoying books, games, and movies. Stay cozy and indulge in your favorite indoor activities.
  2. It's important to be patient with your creative projects. Sometimes letting them sit can help you find the right direction.
  3. Art should be accessible to everyone. Look for affordable pieces and support artists who are making art more reachable.

Ignorant, but curious

59 implied HN points • 30 Jul 21
🎭️ Culture Creativity Literature Art Media Inspiration
  1. Being curious is a great way to learn, even if you feel ignorant about something. It's all about showing interest and paying attention.
  2. If you're stuck on a creative project, try skipping over the boring parts. This can help you regain motivation and spark new ideas.
  3. When life feels upside down, it’s important to adapt instead of just pushing through. Changing your approach can lead to better outcomes.

Practice, practice, practice

79 implied HN points • 08 Jan 21
🎭️ Culture Art Music Literature Education Creativity
  1. Practicing regularly helps you improve, but the goal should be to just get better at what you do, even if it means starting from a place of not being very good.
  2. Reading can be hard sometimes, and it’s okay to take your time with enjoyable books that make you think.
  3. Don't let others tell you what you shouldn't read or do; follow your own interests and find joy in exploring.

Don’t get me wrong

59 implied HN points • 02 Jul 21
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Podcasts Music Writing
  1. Everyone has their pet peeves when it comes to language. It's normal to have a phrase that annoys you, like 'Don't get me wrong.'
  2. Reading can be fun and diverse! You can enjoy multiple books from different genres at the same time.
  3. Creative inspiration can come from anywhere, like movies, music, or even conversations about what kids can teach us.

Relocate your darlings

59 implied HN points • 25 Jun 21
📚 Literature Writing advice Book recommendations Music Reviews Art Critique
  1. Instead of getting rid of your favorite ideas, try moving them to a different place in your work. This can help keep what you love while finding new ways to use it.
  2. Reading is important! Some books can inspire new thoughts and creativity. Finding good recommendations can help keep your summer reading exciting.
  3. It's okay to share your ideas and influences. Discussing art, music, and books can help connect with others and spark new conversations.

The summer book

59 implied HN points • 18 Jun 21
🎭️ Culture Books Art Music Parenting Media
  1. Reading is fun and you can enjoy multiple books at the same time. It's okay to skim through and see what interests you!
  2. Brian Eno has started his own radio station, which is a cool way to discover new music. It has a lot of unreleased tracks to explore.
  3. Creating art and doing projects with your kids can be a great bonding experience. It can also spark creativity in both you and your children.

When the mind’s eye is blind

59 implied HN points • 11 Jun 21
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Music Podcasts Comedy Parenting
  1. Some people can't create pictures in their minds. This means their imagination works differently, which can be surprising.
  2. Taking better notes can help improve writing skills. Using methods like smart notes is a good way to organize thoughts.
  3. Creative activities, like making collages or watching fun movies, can be a great way to relax and enjoy time with friends. It's all about finding what makes you happy.

Pluck the day

59 implied HN points • 04 Jun 21
🎭️ Culture Art Media Literature Film Design
  1. Plucking the day means to fully embrace and take advantage of every moment. It's about recognizing opportunities and making the most out of them.
  2. Ideas can come from both within us and the world around us. Sometimes inspiration is influenced by outside experiences more than our own thoughts.
  3. Corita Kent’s studio has been honored as a historic landmark. This shows the importance of artists and their contributions to culture.

Weakened by the weekend

59 implied HN points • 23 Apr 21
🎭️ Culture Music Literature Comics Art Philosophy
  1. Taking breaks from social media can help reduce feelings of being overwhelmed or weakened after the weekend. It's important to unplug regularly.
  2. Paper dictionaries are unique and enjoyable tools that can make reading and learning new words feel magical.
  3. Composer Lou Harrison's motto of 'Cherish, Conserve, Consider, Create' is a great guideline for living a thoughtful and creative life.

Of portals and pansies

59 implied HN points • 16 Apr 21
🎭️ Culture Literature Music Film Art Writing
  1. Reading and writing can feel like opening a new door to different worlds. It's an exciting way to explore new ideas.
  2. Music and movies can inspire and connect us, making us feel emotions deeply. It’s great to discover new films or songs that resonate with us.
  3. Spring brings new life and beauty around us, like flowers blooming. It's a nice reminder to appreciate nature and its changes.

A quilt made of days

59 implied HN points • 09 Apr 21
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Philosophy Music Media
  1. Quilting can represent the passage of time, where each piece reflects a different day or experience.
  2. Copying influences is important for creativity, but eventually you need to find your own unique voice.
  3. Good conversation can feel difficult, so it's helpful to explore new ways to connect with others beyond basic questions.

Books that suck you in and spin you out

59 implied HN points • 02 Apr 21
📚 Literature Books Reading Authors Literary Criticism Storytelling
  1. Some books pull you in and make you feel deeply connected, while others push you out to explore new ideas or authors. It's a fun way to think about how stories can affect us.
  2. Maps in storytelling can really enhance your reading experience. They help you visualize imaginary worlds and can inspire you in your own writing.
  3. Art can be a way to express gratitude and create meaningful souvenirs. It reminds us of experiences or people that matter to us.

You have to be obsessed

59 implied HN points • 19 Mar 21
🎭️ Culture Books Music Movies Art TV
  1. Being passionate or obsessed about something can drive you to achieve great things. It's important to let that passion show in your work and hobbies.
  2. Books, music, and movies can all inspire you and provide comfort or entertainment. Exploring different genres can open up new perspectives.
  3. Sharing recommendations and experiences with others can create connections and help build a supportive community. It's great to share what you love!

A quote a day

59 implied HN points • 12 Mar 21
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Quotes Documentaries Personal Reflection
  1. Collecting quotes can be a fun way to inspire yourself and keep meaningful thoughts handy.
  2. Reading and enjoying books can provide comfort and joy, especially during tough times like a pandemic.
  3. Keeping a diary, even about daily life during lockdown, helps you reflect on experiences and can be therapeutic.

The stream I go a-fishing in

59 implied HN points • 26 Feb 21
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Philosophy Music Film
  1. Time is a valuable resource, much like a stream we go fishing in. We should make the most of it.
  2. Reading can open up new worlds. There are many interesting books out there waiting to be explored.
  3. Creativity is important, and discussing it can help us learn more about ourselves and our interests.

It ain’t Grand

59 implied HN points • 19 Feb 21
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Writing Texas Disaster
  1. Living in a tough situation can be a slow journey. It's important to find comfort and look for helpers during hard times.
  2. If you're stuck with your creative work, try just pointing at things around you. It can help spark new ideas and inspiration.
  3. Reading is a great escape. Picking up interesting books can offer new perspectives and inspire your own writing.

Every day is Groundhog Day

59 implied HN points • 05 Feb 21
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Music History Entertainment
  1. Every day can feel repetitive, like the movie Groundhog Day. It’s okay to find new ways to celebrate the same day, like suggesting fun alternatives.
  2. February is a unique month because it’s exactly four weeks long. It can make people think differently about how they plan and view time.
  3. What seems boring to us now can actually be interesting later. So, don’t hesitate to document your everyday life because it may tell a great story in the future.

Something that will outlast them

59 implied HN points • 22 Jan 21
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Design Music Media
  1. Disgust can actually help us survive and grow. It can push us to develop new habits, like keeping a diary.
  2. Beautifully designed books can inspire us to write. A simple act of writing just one line a day can be meaningful.
  3. Reading deeply and taking ideas from others is encouraged. This helps us connect with more creativity in our work.

Newsletters should be letters!

0 implied HN points • 03 Sep 24
📚 Literature Writing Communication Creativity Reading Personal Reflection
  1. Newsletters should feel personal and informal, like letters rather than formal reports. This makes them more engaging and relatable for readers.
  2. Consistency is key, so setting specific days to write helps maintain a routine. Regularly sharing updates creates an anticipation for your audience.
  3. Writing as if you are addressing a friend can improve your writing across the board. It makes the process more enjoyable and the content more authentic.