In a world where the vibrancy of youth often fades into the monotony of adulthood, renowned author Austin Kleon offers a refreshing perspective on rekindling our creative spirits. With his latest work, *Don’t Call It Art*, Kleon draws on the unfiltered creativity of children to remind us how to embrace spontaneity and joy in our lives.
The Dullness of Adulthood
As we transition into adulthood, it’s all too easy to lose sight of the wonder and excitement that characterised our childhoods. I find myself, like many in their mid-30s, longing for that carefree sense of play. Days blend together in a predictable cycle: gym, work, chores, and a collapse onto the couch. It’s a life marked by productivity but devoid of the spark that once made each day feel fresh and exciting.
In this routine, I often struggle to articulate my achievements beyond the mundane. The thought of a dishwasher often occupies my daydreams, which is telling of how my aspirations have dulled. Yet, I am acutely aware that this is not depression; rather, it feels as though life is missing its zest. Is this the inevitable price of growing up, or can we reclaim that lost energy?
A Lesson from Childhood
Enter Austin Kleon, whose own journey through creativity has been profoundly influenced by his children. The author of the bestselling *Steal Like an Artist*, Kleon has spent years demystifying the artistic process and making it accessible to everyone. He recalls a period of creative stagnation, feeling disconnected from his work after more than a decade in the industry. The breakthrough came not from professional advice but from observing his young sons, Owen and Jules.
“Being around them was more inspiring than any art school,” Kleon reflects. Their unrestrained energy and fearless approach to creativity served as a catalyst for his own artistic revival. Children demonstrate the power of pure, unadulterated creation—driven not by expectation but by sheer enjoyment. “They show you what it’s like to approach the world as if everything is new,” he explains.
This revelation inspired his sixth book, which offers exercises aimed at reigniting that childlike wonder within us. Kleon challenges the prevailing notion that children are antithetical to serious art, instead proposing that they can be the very source of inspiration we need.
Embracing Playfulness
Kleon’s guidance is straightforward yet profound. First, he encourages adults to shed their inhibitions and become beginners again. “Kids are in the exploring mode,” he says, emphasising the importance of play and experimentation. He urges people to carve out time for “daily playtime” devoid of digital distractions, a simple yet powerful suggestion that many of us overlook in our tech-saturated lives.
In my own attempt to reclaim this sense of play, I sat down at a desk in my bedroom—a space I had intended to use for journaling but which had become a cluttered catch-all. Initially, I hesitated, feeling self-conscious about my creative impulses. However, as Kleon advised, I started small.
Instead of facing a blank sheet of paper, I engaged in “blackout poetry,” transforming a newspaper article into something new. The process was liberating, allowing me to experience creativity in a low-stakes environment. Kleon’s approach, which prioritises curiosity over perfection, is a timely reminder that play can exist outside the confines of conventional expectations.
Finding Your Passion
Beyond play, Kleon advocates for the importance of following our intrinsic interests. He encourages adults to rediscover their passions without the weight of societal judgment. “No one tells kids to ease up on their obsessions,” he notes, challenging us to consider what we might explore anew. This idea resonates strongly; as a child, I freely immersed myself in various interests without worrying about their practicality. Inspired by Kleon, I decided to delve into the fascinating world of ancient Egypt—an exploration that felt refreshingly childlike and invigorating.
Kleon’s core message is clear: creativity is not a luxury but a necessity. It nourishes our spirits and enriches our lives. He reminds us that play is not just for children; it is essential for adults too. “You need it to keep your spirit alive,” he asserts, highlighting the importance of prioritising play in our daily routines.
Why it Matters
As we navigate the complexities of adulthood, the lessons from children are invaluable. They remind us of the importance of curiosity, experimentation, and playfulness in our lives. By embracing these attributes, we can counteract the stagnation that often accompanies adulthood and reignite our passions. In a time marked by uncertainty, rekindling our creative spirit can provide a much-needed sense of joy and purpose, ultimately allowing us to live more fulfilling lives. As Kleon aptly puts it, “No matter how old you are, you can always find ways to have fun.”
