Why you should start copying.

I don't remember who I heard this from, but someone said something like "trying to learn how to draw without copying first it's like giving an instrument to someone and telling them to just play something without first learning form the masters".

Studying shape language, line language, and color language is something Ethan Becker promotes often. Study the professionals.

Yes! especially at the beginning to learn, research and refine your style. I think it's important to continue to be inspired by artists you like, while still having your own style. That sounds logical but it doesn't seem to be for everyone.I'd be curious to know what inspires you

I've done that a lot for my work, and you really do learn a lot trying to figure out how they did stuff, as well as trying to understand the thought process behind those creative decisions

Yeah... but... the difference between learning and copying/stealing is being open about it. Even if you're heavely inspired by another artist... it's just way more cool to give credit where credit is deu.