What Makes an artist an artist?

To anyone That has a thought about this...

I always thought i was an artist, a creator, an original. But when i hear people comment on copies I always wonder is that truly art? if you copy someone else's work can you be called an artist? I get very confused and perplexed over these thoughts and i would like to hear what others think about this subject.  

IF: Wilderness

"The last truly wild places that humans do not control" Wikipedia

When i read this statement on the web this is the image that popped out of my head.

To answer a question some one asked about my last picture, all of my pictures even the dragon are mixed media. I use a drawing of my own and build on it in photoshop.

New Year New plan

Hello to everyone. I would love to hear comments and feedback on my work and in return i will keep new work posted.