20 Life Lessons You Can Learn From Jeff Koons

As one the richest living artists, Jeff Koons has achieved monumental success. These are some success tips you can learn from the big man himself.

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Complex Original

Image via Complex Original

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As the world awaits the opening of “Jeff Koons: A Retrospective” at the Whitney Museum on June 27, we decided to dig deeper into the life of the world's fourth richest living artist. Known for his controversial artwork and his overflowing bank account, Jeff Koons is one of most influential and widely recognized artists of this century.

Since he first burst on the scene in the 1980s, Koons has achieved monumental commercial success and fame, with a roster of artwork that sells for millions of dollars. In November 2013, his sculpture Balloon Dog (Orange) sold for $58,405,000, a price that set a new World Auction Record.

Critics of his artwork, which ranges from stainless steel sculptures of shiny balloon animals to sexually explicit paintings of him and his ex-wife, argue that Koons' work is no better than kitsch.

At the same time, he’s successful for a reason, and his rise in the art world should be an inspiration. These are 20 Life Lessons You Can Learn From Jeff Koons.

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Life is better in color.

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Let out your inner child.

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Do it for the kids.

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Remember to give back.

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Recognize your influences.

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Teamwork makes the dream work.

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Music is one of the best sources of inspiration.

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Get started early.

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Use your passions to help you develop a sense of self.

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Follow your interests.

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Have a diverse skill set.

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Be strategic.

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There's always room for improvement.

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Embrace new things.

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Be comfortable with the taboo.

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Don't be too quick to judge.

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Ignore the haters.

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Pay attention to the simple things.

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Family comes first.

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Celebrate in style.

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