Pastiche

Noun

Definition: An artistic work that imitates the style or character of the work of one or more other artists.

Synonyms: Imitation, Mimicry, Parody

Antonyms: Original, Innovation

Examples:
  • The artist's painting was a pastiche of Picasso's cubist style.
  • The play was a delightful pastiche of various Shakespearean works.
Mnemonics:
  • Think of "past" as referring to the past and "iche" as a play on "itching" to imitate.
  • Picture an art collage made up of pieces from different famous artists, representing a pastiche.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "pastiche" comes from the French word "pastiche," which means "pasty-like." It originated in the mid-19th century from the Italian word "pasticcio," meaning "pie, pastry."

Historical Usage:

"Pastiche" has been used in the art world since the mid-19th century to describe works that imitate or borrow elements from other artists or artistic styles.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"In the style of a pastiche"

Explanation:

Refers to an artwork created in the manner of a pastiche, imitating the style or characteristics of a specific artist or artistic movement.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Considering a pastiche as a form of plagiarism.

Explanation:

While a pastiche does imitate and borrow from other artists, it is typically done as a tribute or homage rather than an attempt to steal or claim originality. Pastiche involves a conscious imitation and often incorporates original elements to create a new composition.

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