The Name That Steve Jobs and Leonardo da Vinci Have In Common

Leonardo da Vinci is one of history’s greatest artists.

So is Steve Jobs.

And both were “Rennaissance Men” in the most literal sense of the word.

The term "Renaissance Man" is often used to describe individuals who possess a diverse range of skills and interests, encompassing both science and the liberal arts.

Taken together, Jobs and da Vinci are (perhaps) the best example of truly diversified creators/builders/innovators that the world has ever known.

The beginning(s)

Leonardo da Vinci, born in the 15th century, was an artist, inventor, and scientist who excelled in a wide variety of fields.

He is perhaps most famous for his paintings, including the iconic "Mona Lisa" and "The Last Supper," but his contributions to science and technology were just as impressive. He was a skilled anatomist, engineer, and mathematician, and he designed a wide array of innovative machines, including flying objects and war machines, that were well ahead of their time.

Visit the National Museum of Science and Technology in Milan that bears Leonardo’s name and it is possible to see just how broad were his interests and how vast were his talents.

Similarly, Steve Jobs, who passed away in 2011, was a visionary entrepreneur who co-founded the now iconic Apple and helped to shape the modern world of technology to a degree that few people have.

Jobs was known for his ability to combine his passions for technology, design, and art to create innovative products, including the iPhone and the iPad, that dramatically changed the way people all over the world interact with technology.

Both Leonardo and Jobs were true "Renaissance Men.”

They combined a deep and passionate appreciation for the arts with a strong sense of scientific and technological curiosity. They were not content to limit themselves to just one field, but instead sought to explore and master as many different (and even widely disparate) disciplines as possible.

Par excellance

One of the key similarities between Leonardo and Jobs was their relentless pursuit of innovation.

Da Vinci, a master tinkerer, was constantly experimenting with new ideas and technologies, and he was never satisfied with the status quo. Similarly, Jobs was always looking for ways to push the boundaries of what was possible and bring new products to market.

Another common thread between the two men is their ability to think (far) outside the box. Leonardo was famous for his unconventional (and sometimes strange) way of thinking and his ability to see the world in a different way. He was constantly challenging accepted norms of his times and sought new solutions to old problems. Jobs, the consummate rebel, was also known for his ability to see the potential in new technologies and envision how they could be used in ways that others had even begun to consider.

Born to tell

Both Leonardo and Jobs were also masterful communicators who were able to articulate their ideas in a way that was compelling and convincing. Leonardo was a talented writer and artist, and he used his skills to explain his ideas and designs in simple yet sophisticated ways that captured the imagination and the interest of those around him - including the rich and powerful to whom he owed his livelihood.

Steve Jobs was also skilled at presenting his (often revolutionary) ideas and products in a way that captured the imagination of the public. Just watch the YouTube videos of his product presentations - or read the masterful summaries of his presentation style - and it is clear that Jobs was an artist at work, also with words.

Over the hill

It is also worth noting that both Leonardo and Jobs faced significant challenges and obstacles in their lives and careers. Da Vinci struggled to find patrons for his work and faced criticism from his contemporaries for his unconventional ideas. Not exactly the life of a superstar from today’s world…

Jobs was famously fired from Apple in 1985 and had to overcome significant challenges to later re-establish himself and eventually become the iconic figure that he is today. Despite these difficulties, however, both men remained steadfast in their pursuit of their passions and continued to innovate and create throughout their lives.

More…

Does the world need more “Rennaissance Men and Women” today?

Definitely…

At the end of the day, the best builders are all about connecting the dots and both da Vinci and Jobs were masters at that craft….

…and many others.