Art Quote by Jean-Georges Noverre
“At our theaters we only see feeble copies of the copies that have proceeded them, renounce that slavish routine which keeps your art in its infancy; examine everything relative to the development of talents; be original; form a style for yourselves based on your private studies; if you must copy, imitate nature, it is a noble model and never misleads those who follow it.”
About This Quote
Source Treat: Letters on Dance by Jean-Georges Noverre, 1760
Artists should avoid mindless imitation, study past works critically, and develop a personal style rooted in nature; copying can be noble if it serves genuine learning.
In simple terms: Avoid blind copying; develop your own style based on nature and study.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate originality through thoughtful study.
Themes
art
originality
learning
creativity
Mood
reflective
inspired
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- theatre rehearsals
- art school projects
- creative workshops
- design studios
- musical composition
Key Concepts
imitation
nature
personal style
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you balance learning from masters with forging your own voice?
- What aspects of nature inspire your creative process?
A Different Perspective
Blind imitation can stifle innovation and lead to derivative work.
