Igor Stravinsky: 'What gives the artist real prestige is his imitators.'

What gives the artist real prestige is his imitators.

The quote by Igor Stravinsky, "What gives the artist real prestige is his imitators," captures an intriguing notion about the role of imitation in the artistic realm. At first glance, this statement suggests that an artist's true measure of success lies in the ability to inspire others to imitate their work. It implies that an artist's influence extends beyond their own creations, reaching the level of impact where others find value in replicating and emulating their style or ideas. This concept holds great importance in the art world, as it signifies not only the artist's originality but also their ability to inspire and shape the creative endeavors of future generations.However, to delve deeper into the true essence of this quote, let us introduce an unexpected philosophical concept – the idea of the 'doppelgänger.' The doppelgänger, a German term meaning "double-goer," refers to a paranormal duplicate or counterpart of an individual. In a philosophical sense, the doppelgänger represents a mirror reflection of an individual's identity and existence.When we connect this concept with Stravinsky's quote, a fascinating comparison emerges. Just as a doppelgänger is seen as a reflection of a person, imitators in the artistic realm can be seen as reflections of the artist's work. They embody the essence of the artist's creative vision and seek to reproduce it in their own interpretations. In this context, the imitators become the artistic doppelgängers, paying homage to the original artist while breathing new life into their work through their own artistic expressions.This comparison unveils a thought-provoking juxtaposition. While the doppelgänger represents an unsettling and eerie presence in traditional folklore, the artistic doppelgänger takes on a different role – that of an admirer and contributor. Rather than being a mere duplication, the imitator becomes an extension of the original artist's influence, adding their own unique perspectives and interpretations to enrich the artistic landscape.Stravinsky's quote emphasizes the inherent value of imitators, as they elevate the artist's status and solidify their artistic legacy. The presence of imitators signifies the artist's ability to transcend their own originality, reaching a level of influence that inspires others to follow in their footsteps. By embracing their imitators, the artist acknowledges the power of their work to inspire and ignite further artistic creation.Moreover, Stravinsky's quote challenges the traditional notions of competition and originality in the art world. It suggests that instead of fearing or shunning imitators, artists should embrace them as testament to their impact and success. Imitators are not seen as threats but as collaborators and contributors, perpetuating the evolution of artistic ideas and movements.In essence, Stravinsky's quote implies that an artist's prestige lies not only in their individual creations but also in their ability to inspire and influence others. The imitators, or artistic doppelgängers, reflect the depth and breadth of the artist's artistic vision, spreading their creative energy far beyond the confines of their own work. This idea challenges us to view imitation not as a form of plagiarism or replication but as a testament to the enduring power of art and its ability to transcend individuality.In conclusion, Igor Stravinsky's quote, "What gives the artist real prestige is his imitators," presents a novel perspective on the role of imitation in the artistic realm. By introducing the concept of the doppelgänger, we can compare and contrast the unsettling nature of traditional doppelgängers with the transformative potential of artistic imitators. This comparison highlights the value of imitators as contributors and collaborators, rather than mere duplications, affirming the artist's ability to inspire others and establish a lasting artistic legacy. Ultimately, this quote challenges artists to embrace the presence of imitators and recognize the power of their influence in shaping the trajectory of their artistic careers.