Sharing is caring - Immitation is the highest form of flattery

So lately I've been thinking, what with my on going tattoo apprenticeship, about sharing and teachings in art.

I am very lucky to be where I am right now with the people I'm with.

I'm so lucky I have not one but two amazing mentors who have taken me under their inked wings.

So far in my twenty something years of being, I've noticed two types of artist.

1.) There are open artists (typically ones that are or who do become great friends) who are generally willing to share knowledge, techniques and all that jazz. In this kind of sharing environment, where things are shared voluntarily and respected, they believe that art and creativity can truly grow and flourish and it really does.  

2.) Then there are artists who stamp their name on everything and claim it as theirs and theirs alone, not for anyone else to copy or use as inspiration. Only to be an envious on looker. Delusional or talented, they put themselves on a pedestal. 

Don't get me wrong, if you create your own original work, power to you. It should be recognized as yours and should not be claimed/stolen by others. BUT the only way to keep something all to yourself is to never really put it out there. I mean seriously, think about how many people this day and age have copied or did their own interpretation of Vincent van Gogh's "Starry Night" or bands/singers who do covers to famous songs. A LOT.

 You are the source of your art, no one else can be you so why fret?

Keeping is not really what art is.

Art is an expression made to be shared.

To put yourself out there.

Like they say, "Imitation is the highest form of flattery" 

Take it as a compliment that you have been recognized and inspired someone.

I've known and had "number two" friends and it sucks. To them, they are the stars of the show. There is no room for you. There can only be one highlander!!! Haha.

 A lot of times they do not look at you as a colleague but competition and may belittle you or your work.

I tend to want to surround myself with number ones (open artists). You learn a lot. Amazing opportunities and collaborations happen with those types. With people like that, you want to share, help and encourage because it's mutual and it radiates positivity. 

 For me open artists types typically become life long friends. They leave deep impressions on you. My friends, you know who you are. Though we may not see each other everyday or live in the same place, when we meet up we just pick up where we left off. That's some good friend status right there. It's something to be cherished and encouraged.