The source of creativity tends to be a rather controversial topic. Many people believe there are no new ideas in the world. This is often used as justification to lazily steal old ideas to make them your own.
I’m not in that camp.
I believe there is an important distinction between being inspired by an idea, and stealing an idea. Stealing means replicating a previous concept trying to capture value from something already validated. When working from inspiration, you are setting out to build something new while using a collection of ideas as tools.
There is no shame in venturing into the unknown and coming back with something that resembles an existing creation. But there is shame in avoiding the unknown altogether and leeching on the spoils of past explorers.
While I am certainly advocating for people to venture into the unknown, stealing ideas can play a role in that process. If you are new to a style of art or a technical discipline, it can be overwhelming to go on a grand adventure of creation. Investing time honing your skills by replicating things you admire can help build creative confidence. Once you are equipped, go on the adventure. Don’t play it safe.