If you’ve ever wondered whether it's okay to copy an artwork you saw online—or what’s acceptable when it comes to using other artists’ work as inspiration—you’re not alone. In this episode, Ros and Laura unpack the often misunderstood world of artistic influence, originality, and copyright.

Watch the YouTube episode here: How Not To Be A Copycat Artist - Ep 032

Whether you’re just starting your art journey or growing into a more professional space, understanding creative ethics is crucial. We discuss the difference between being inspired by someone else’s work and directly copying it, and what it means to develop your voice as an artist through experimentation.

We also talk about workshop pieces, artworks made during classes, and when it’s okay to share or sell them. The message? Explore, learn widely, and let those influences shape your style—not define it.

We unpack what copyright is and what intellectual property is in the context of the arts and how knowledge of this can help you as you transition into a professional art practice.

Ros shares how important external influences are on one’s art practice and how our art is a mix-up of all of our previous art experiences. Laura adds that it is ‘normal’ to be influenced by your evolving tastes and experiences over time in areas like music, art, childhood, experimentation and how all of these factors have an impact on her art practice.

Laura and Ros chat about artworks resulting from workshops or courses and whether or not they can be shared on social media or sold. We discuss what good etiquette is and reference the beautiful Elizabeth Gilbert who states in her book Big Magic that “we must imitate before we innovate.” Tossing around the concept that nothing is ever truly original, we suggest that trying things on and experimenting with various styles is an essential part of the art process and your journey as a creative.

Ros chats about why she recommends for her students to complete as many courses as possible, so that their toolkit is truly a mash-up and they can pic and choose all the little bits that relate to their own style.

We hope that you enjoy the Show!

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Please send us a DM on Instagram to tell us how you found this episode and let us know if you have any ideas for future topics for the show.

This episode is sponsored by:
Ros’ Art For The Heart Membership for creatives wanting to create regularly and dive deeper into their art journey. For more info, head here: http://www.permissiontopaint.co/afh

EPISODE LINKS:
Australian Arts Law Elizabeth Gilbert Austin Kleon - Steal Like An Artist Unsplash Andy Warhol

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Follow Laura on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurajaneday/

Follow Ros on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rosgervayart

And to book a creative kick-start coaching session with Laura or to find out more about her Soul Medicine Painting workshops please visit: https://laurajaneday.com/

For more information about Ros’ Art For The Heart membership as well as her instant access classes please visit https://www.permissiontopaint.co or to see Ros’ artwork please visit http://www.rosgervayart.com

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With love & gratitude, 

Ros

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