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An open letter to the girl who sent me a DM this morning


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Photo and artwork by @valster73. Do not use without permission.

 Q: Can we copy and post on Instagram and then tag them (the artist) saying we were inspired? Because I’m a beginner and I just want to be consistent with my practice. I copied your work too but didn’t post it on Instagram yet. I want to show off that I can paint like you, and of course tag you that I’m inspired by you. Can I do that?

 Today I woke up to this question in my DM from someone who saw my IG story about asking permission if you want to copy someone’s work. There was no short answer to that question and even though I have already given the person an answer, I thought that I'd share my answer here too on the blog for others to learn.
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Hi girl!

Thank you for messaging me. I’m glad to hear that you love my work and that it inspires you, and to answer your question: Can we copy and post and then tag them (the artist) saying we were inspired by them?

My answer: No you can’t because you are copying, not being inspired. There is a big difference (but separated by a very thin line). I know that you are still learning and want to be consistent in practicing. That’s awesome! But that doesn’t mean you have to copy people’s work. Have you read any of the articles I recommended in my latest post on IG “be inspired to create not imitate”? If you haven’t, please take a moment to read them. The links are in my (IG) bio.

When you are learning, I would highly suggest that you practice technique first. Practice letterforms. Study and learn the elements of a good design. Don’t practice copying people’s artwork, because if this becomes a habit or mindset, this will only hurt you in the long run. I've already seen several people who got into trouble because of this later in their journey.

 Also, you mentioned that you wanted to show off that you are able to paint like me. Let me be honest. Being able to copy your favorite artist is not necessary a good thing. Yes, it is quite an accomplishment and yes, it shows skill. BUT it also shows me (and a lot of other people) that you are incapable of coming up with your own ideas, and copying is just an easy way out. For a lot of us, we put our heart and soul into our work. We’ve spent hours working on our skills and thinking up ideas, and for someone to just copy that is just a little disrespectful. As artists, we want to inspire people to create, not imitate our work. We understand that we all draw inspiration from somewhere but that is different from copying. 

 Please don’t be discouraged though. I know that when you are first starting out it can be difficult. I’ve been there, done that. We all have. And yes, it may take some time before you can start creating your own stuff with your own style, but if you are willing to learn and work hard, you will get there. It all starts with having the right mindset.

I hope this helps answer your question. I wish you all the best in your creative journey. May this be the start of a great year ahead of you.

 Sincerely,
Vallery.


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