Mason Cooley's quote suggests that art is a process of innovative advancement. It begins with imitation, which is the act of copying or replicating existing masterpieces. This permits artists to learn the fundamentals of their craft and establish their own distinct style. As they end up being more experienced, they can start to innovate and produce something entirely new. Development is the act of creating something that has never been seen before, and it is the supreme objective of any artist. By combining replica and development, artists can develop something that is both familiar and distinct. This quote encourages artists to accept both imitation and development in order to produce something really special.
