@ben - thx for answering my question.
@dusty - i'm only talking about the two avatars already. if ur definition of stealing was taking another sprite and editing it (regardless of purpose, 'cult' status, consent, legal status of work, skill of original artist etcetera) then its still theft. obviously u have a different definition to tet.
I now think the original question is wrong because i don't think tetsuya could edit a horse so that only an experienced artist could tell. Unless someone can give an example where they are able to rip and disguise the work (without being able to draw it for themselves, or it being quicker and still matching overall aesthetic) its stupid discussing its merits.
@Frycko- lol!