It’s always fun when the topic of clone artists (or imitators) comes up in conversation. I guess it all depends on where you stand as a collector and whether or not you’re a fan of the artist who is being copied. In some cases, as Byrne states, the clones can even surpass the original. But what’s the point really? Copying the current hot artist of any particular era (whether it be Jim Lee, Art Adams, Todd McFarlane, Adam Hughes, or anyone else who’s been heavily copied in the past), is no different from any other trend. Wearing the same clothes as someone popular, getting the same haircut as someone popular, or just basically choosing to be a follower rather than marching to your own beat. Personally, I like seeing something I’ve never seen before. Of course these days, that’s getting harder and harder to find. But that’s what makes it all the more special when you do discover it.
That being said, I am however, a HUGE Gulacy fan. And I love Keown as well. A bit more lukewarm with Dodson, but I do find most of his work pleasing to the eyes. Can't say the same for most of the Image clones. But that's only because of the "house style" being implemented by each of the founders. I guess you can only work for Todd, or Jim, or Marc, or Rob, if you draw like them. LOL