Robert Genn covered this subject recently in one of his Twice Weekly Letters. In decorative painting, we are criticized for this, but imitation is nothing new in the art world. Old masters studied older masters to learn technique. It is still taught in art schools today.
I really liked this comment to the subject by Asterio Tecson: "Learning by copying another artist's work is not imitation but more of discovery...."
As an art instructor I have taught novices to paint for more than 23 years. Show them how to use a brush, how to use the paint, and how to use a design; then watch the magic begin. Give them the chance to learn the use of the tools before causing them to come up with their own subjects. Allow learning through imitation so that discovery can begin. One prefers flowers, another animals, another folk art. Every style requires some helpful knowledge of medium and tools. There are those who are self taught, and I say good on them! However, most of the musicians and media artists of the world benefited from teaching, yes? I think we would have precious little music to listen to if not!
Robert Genn responded to one post with this comment: "In my experience, collectors seldom, if ever, ask if a painting was painted by someone with a fine arts degree."
To read the Robert Genn's letter and comments, go here:
http://clicks.robertgenn.com/learning.php#InesEpperson
I really liked this comment to the subject by Asterio Tecson: "Learning by copying another artist's work is not imitation but more of discovery...."
As an art instructor I have taught novices to paint for more than 23 years. Show them how to use a brush, how to use the paint, and how to use a design; then watch the magic begin. Give them the chance to learn the use of the tools before causing them to come up with their own subjects. Allow learning through imitation so that discovery can begin. One prefers flowers, another animals, another folk art. Every style requires some helpful knowledge of medium and tools. There are those who are self taught, and I say good on them! However, most of the musicians and media artists of the world benefited from teaching, yes? I think we would have precious little music to listen to if not!
Robert Genn responded to one post with this comment: "In my experience, collectors seldom, if ever, ask if a painting was painted by someone with a fine arts degree."
To read the Robert Genn's letter and comments, go here:
http://clicks.robertgenn.com/learning.php#InesEpperson
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