“Art is theft.”
— Pablo Picasso
In the age of AI and endless content creation, the pressure to be original has never been higher. But here’s the truth most digital creators aren’t told: nothing is 100% original. Every design, video, post, reel, or blog is a remix of inspiration, influence, and intent. And that’s not a bad thing.
In fact, that’s the secret sauce.
Welcome to the world of “Steal Like an Artist”—a game-changing mindset that every modern creator must embrace to thrive in 2025.
What Does “Steal Like an Artist” Mean?
Coined by author and creative thinker Austin Kleon, Steal Like an Artist is about learning how to borrow ideas ethically, remix creatively, and innovate fearlessly.
It’s not about copying—it’s about transforming.
You steal the essence. The emotion. The structure. And then you infuse it with your story, your culture, your voice.
Think of it like cooking. You don’t invent salt or fire. But you mix ingredients in your own style—and THAT becomes your signature dish.
Why This Philosophy is Crucial for Digital Creators in 2025
Let’s break it down for the Indian digital creator:
1. Content Overload = Inspiration Everywhere
You’re surrounded by thousands of posts every day. Instead of drowning in the scroll—curate ideas that spark something in you. The best creators are excellent observers.
2. AI Can Replicate… But Not Remix Like YOU
Tools like ChatGPT, Midjourney, and Runway ML can replicate styles—but they can’t bring in your voice, values, or lived experiences. Use AI to build, but remix your way.
3. Creating Consistently Requires Creative Fuel
When you create daily—whether it’s carousels, blogs, thumbnails, or videos—you NEED a system. “Stealing like an artist” gives you a structure: watch > study > tweak > create.
4. Your Identity Is a Mashup
As an Indian creator, your influences range from Bollywood and Bhagat Singh to Beyoncé and Behance. Lean into that mix. That’s your competitive edge.
💡 How to “Steal” Like a Pro (The Ethical Way)
Here’s a creator-friendly 5-step process:
✅ 1. Collect Inspiration Like a Hoarder
Screenshots. Pinterest boards. Saved Reels. Podcast quotes. Keep a vault of what inspires you.
✅ 2. Study the Structure, Not Just the Aesthetics
Ask yourself:
- Why does this video work?
- What’s the hook in this caption?
- What makes this reel loop-worthy?
✅ 3. Remix, Don’t Rip Off
Don’t copy-paste. Combine two or three ideas to make something new. Add your personality, your backstory, your Desi flavor.
✅ 4. Give Credit When Needed
Inspired by someone’s format or hook? Mention it. Build in public. The internet loves transparency.
✅ 5. Create Fast, Improve Later
Don’t wait for “originality.” Start with what you admire, publish, and evolve. Action > perfection.
📌 Real-Life Examples of Smart Artistic “Stealing”
🎨 Designers
Ever noticed how so many carousels on Instagram follow the “bold font + hook + swipeable tips” format? That started from creators like Chris Do, and now Indian designers are remixing it with Hindi captions, Bollywood references, and local stories.
🎥 YouTubers
Creators like Abhi & Niyu and Ankur Warikoo have adapted formats inspired by global creators like Matt D’Avella—but they localized them beautifully.
✍️ Writers
Top Medium and LinkedIn creators often “borrow” formats like “X Reasons Why…” or “This Changed My Life” headlines—and tailor them to their niche.
How Explified Helps You “Steal Like an Artist”
At Explified, we don’t just show you tools—we help you build with inspiration.
What you get:
✅ AI-Generated Content Ideas – Based on viral trends
✅ Design & Copy Templates – So you remix faster
✅ Brand Strategy for Creators – Build your unique voice
✅ Workshops & Tools – Learn how to steal like an artist, ethically
💡 Need help creating content that converts?
Let Explified help you remix better.
💬 Final Thoughts: In 2025, Remixers Will Rule
If you’re a creator stuck in “what should I make?”—flip the question:
What’s working that I can make my own?
Stealing like an artist is not lazy—it’s legendary. Every creator you admire does it.
So stop chasing “pure originality” and start creating with purpose, perspective, and personality.
📣 Share this blog with a fellow creator who needs to hear this.
