Inspiration and Innovation

Watercolor on Paper by Sterk Valros

Watercolor and Acrylic on Paper by Julia Hendrickson

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For a long time I have been trying to articulate what it means to take inspiration from someone's work and how that it distinct from copying. Recently I was inspired by this painting by Sterk. And embarked on my own grid exploration. I created squared of printed acrylic and then added a watercolor wash over the surface. When paired with the original work you can see how my work was clearly inspired by Strek's AND how it is something completely different. 

There is a place for copying work in school and in your private studio practice. You learn a lot by emulating others. Most frequently for me it means holding my brush in a different way or learning the nuance of a different material application. AND most notably you and everyone that encounters your construction knows that what you have created is a copy. 

A few years ago a watercolor artist (with a large online following) asked if they could share my technique. I gave permission, because I thought that they would share using best practices. They did not. They directly copied my techniques, produced the work in a very similar color and then sold workshops incorporating these skills, while only once attributing to me. It was a disheartening experience that has left me wary of those that copy others work. 

That being said I encourage you all to be inspired. To see work that interests you, learn from it's foundation and take steps on your own path.