How Artists Are Copying Masterpieces at World-Renowned Museums

Artsy (03/05/2018)
  • Many museums let artists set up their easels for several hours and paint replicas of famous artworks during public hours.
  • The Louvre launched the earliest copyist program (1793) shortly after radicals (French Revolution) converted the royal palace into a museum.
  • To secure a permit, artist applications must include work images, a personal statement, and character references.
  • To prevent forgeries, copies must be a different size/scale than originals.
  • Copyist programs help artists improve their skills and museums promote their works.