The thought that everything has already been created often confronts creativity. But rather than feeling down about this, we should view it positively. Essentially, art is about reimagining or redoing what already exists. Famous French writer André Gide pointed out, “Everything that needs to be said has already been said. But, since no one was listening, everything must be said again.”

We can look at artistic creation as a genetic blend. Each new piece of art is a unique mix of influences and inspirations. It's like a child inheriting traits from their parents. The concept of originality transforms this lens. It's not about creating from nothing. Instead, it's about choosing the right influences.

To enhance your artistic skills, start by focusing on an artist you admire. Learn about their work, what influenced them, and their methods. Next, explore the artists who inspired them. This approach broadens your knowledge and understanding of art. It also helps you see how art has evolved.

We can compare an artist to a selective collector. Hoarders amass items indiscriminately. In contrast, artists thoughtfully gather ideas, inspirations, and experiences. These elements resonate deeply with their personal aesthetic and philosophical leanings. Such a selective process is crucial in developing a distinct, recognizable artistic voice.

Being curious is vital for growing intellectually and creatively. Learning and understanding more about the world is mainly up to you. You should always seek new information beyond school and structured learning. Nowadays, with Google and online platforms, it's easier than ever to access knowledge. These resources help artists explore topics they're interested in and broaden their understanding of the world.

Creative people need to record their ideas and inspirations. Doing this as soon as they come up becomes a helpful habit. Carry a notebook for sketches, notes, or for recording inspiring conversations. Famous artists and musicians often kept their tools with them. For example, artist David Hockney tailored the inside pockets of his suit jackets to fit a sketchbook.

Similarly, musician Arthur Russell preferred shirts with two front pockets, where he would carry fragments of his music scores. These practices allowed them to always be ready to capture inspiration. Being prepared to note down ideas helps in keeping and building on them. This continuously fuels the creative process with new thoughts.