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Writer's pictureVedang Agnihotri

Copied or Inspired: Navigating the Fine Line as an Artist

Let’s get real about something that almost every creative has grappled with: the slippery slope between being “inspired” and flat-out “copied.” It’s a conversation that I think deserves some honesty, especially since it’s one I’ve had with myself many times.



When I started Gradient India back in 2020, I was fresh off a life-changing Europe trip in 2019. I fell hard for European aesthetics—those classic lines, calming palettes, and timeless charm. I was inspired, to say the least. But as I tried to transform those feelings into something tangible, I ran headfirst into a massive creative block (yes, the kind that makes you question everything).


So, like many artists, I took a deep dive into the treasure trove of ideas that is Pinterest. It seemed like the perfect solution: endless visuals to spark creativity. Except, here’s the catch—sometimes, I didn’t just get inspired; I ended up lifting concepts almost as is. Why? Because it was an easy way to pitch to clients looking for custom art. And while it worked here and there, it didn’t really click for most people or, frankly, for me. Deep down, I knew I was falling short of my potential, and that nagging feeling wouldn’t go away.

Finding My Own Artistic Voice

Thankfully, I had people around me who gently (and sometimes not-so-gently) nudged me toward creating something original. That’s when I realized that originality is what I truly crave as an artist. Sure, Pinterest is a fantastic source of ideas, but there’s a huge difference between using it as a spark and letting it dictate your work. The world doesn’t need more copies—it needs more you, more me, more unique interpretations that only we can offer.

Nothing Is Entirely New, and That’s Okay

Here’s the truth: at this point, there’s probably nothing that hasn’t already been thought of, made, or dreamed up by someone else. We live in a time where inspiration is everywhere, and it’s hard to create something that feels 100% original. But what makes something yours is your personal twist, your unique perspective, and the emotions you pour into it. It's about transforming an idea so that it feels authentic, not just trendy.

The Thin Line Between Art and Design

Selling something that isn’t trending is tough, no question about it. But here’s the thing—art isn’t supposed to follow trends. Designs can be trendy, and there’s nothing wrong with that; it’s a different beast altogether. Art, however, is deeply personal, timeless, and often a bit rebellious. It doesn’t conform just to please. There’s also a fine line between what’s copied and what’s inspired, and walking that line takes courage and clarity.

Embracing Growth and Authenticity

Today, I’m grateful for the challenges I faced, the blocks I hit, and the people who pushed me to do better. It taught me that the best art comes from within, even if it’s influenced by external inspirations. At Gradient India, I’m all about mixing ideas and aesthetics in ways that feel true to me, even if it means going against the grain. Because at the end of the day, art that matters isn’t made for the trends; it’s made for the heart.

So here’s to keeping things real, being inspired but never losing our unique voice, and knowing that true creativity isn’t about making what’s easy—it’s about making what’s authentically ours.

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