The masters must be copied over and over again," Degas…
““The masters must be copied over and over again," Degas said, "and it is only after proving yourself a good copyist that you should reasonably be permitted to draw a radish from nature." Degas first received permission to copy paintings at the Louvre in 1853 when he was eighteen. He was most interested in the great works of the Italian Renaissance and of his own classical French heritage, hence this detailed copy of Poussin's painting””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Degas argues that mastering copying great works is essential before creating original art, emphasizing disciplined study.
In simple terms: Copying masters precedes original creation.
Key Takeaway
Study past masters before innovating.
Themes
art education
discipline
mastery
creativity
heritage
Mood
instructional
reflective
Type
Artist:1
Degas:1
Italian renaissance:0
Nature:0
Painting:0
Copy Paintings:1
Copied Degas:0
Degas Received:0
Degas Said:1
When to use this quote
- art school
- studio practice
- museum study
Key Concepts
copyist training
artistic lineage
skill development
Questions to Reflect On
- How does copying foster originality?
- When is copying counterproductive?
A Different Perspective
Some view copying as stifling originality.