Keep Calm and Be Kind

In chapter 8 of "Steal like an Artist", Kleon touches upon a few points, one of them being the importance of being kind to others. Not only will it reflect positively on your character, but also allows you to make friends and thus expand your network. I have always said that I would rather have more friends than enemies because you never know when you need help on something or if there will be a great opportunity for collaboration in the future. 

With the internet being a great resource to get your name out and to get information, it's hard not to get caught up with all the trolls online. But that's just what they are, trolls who strive to cause drama over the internet. Kleon talks about how he would get caught up in some argument over twitter, but his wife told him to spend his energy on making something rather than getting worked up about it. His wife is absolutely right. So much energy, time, and effort is wasted on combating trolls that could have been used for something productive that matters in the end. 

Another point Kleon talks about is surrounding yourself with those who are better at you in what you do or want to do. Really that is the only way you will force yourself to improve your work. When you are constantly surrounded by good work, eventually you abilities will grow to reflect that. That is what I am hoping I get out of my internship this semester. The other designers not only produce great pieces of work almost every time, but they also come up with really creative and logical solutions and also are able to work in a timely manner. Those are qualities I would ultimately like to have and even though sometimes I feel my work isn't good enough, I know I am learning and that my work will improve, even if it's only a little. I also like how Kleon mentions that if you are the best in a room, then you need to go find another room where you are not the best. 

There are a few designers that I admire and am currently following through facebook, but one stand out in particular to me and that is Sakimichan ( I think I talked about her before). I really enjoy and am envious of the works that she is capable of doing. They are fun to look and also quite beautiful as well. I like how she takes requests from her fans and is open to share any weaknesses in her pieces. Her latest hurtle is incorporating perspective into her characters and on a few of her latest works, she mentions she is still trying to improve that aspect of her illustrations. She also shares her techniques with the public if you decide to support her, which is reasonable considering her abilities. This touches upon what Kleon mentions in an earlier chapter of the book to share your abilities. If you have a loyal fan base (which you probably have to be kind to), then no one will steal any of your ideas because they respect your work. Kleon mentions that one should write fan letters to those they admire. While I was never much of a writer, I guess if I were to write one to Sakimichan it would go something like this:

Dear Sakimichan, 

I just wanted to write to you to say how much I enjoy your work and the fact you are willing to share it with others. I don't remember how I exactly came about your work, but I always get excited when you post something new. I also find it admirable that you have made tutorials on how to illustrate the way you do. Most people would think one of your abilities would keep it a secret, but you willingness to share makes you that much more respectable in my book. If you don't mind, I would love to know about how you came to where you are now. When did you start drawing and how long did it take you to find your style and be comfortable with posting it online for the world to see? Were you ever have to face discouragement from others? Knowing a little back story would be very inspirational and encouraging for rising artists. Anyways, thank you for the work that you do and I look forward to many more that will come. 

Your fan, 
Catherine