Does the Shadow Arts feature count as learning spells

The feature says that 'you can use your ki to duplicate the effects of certain spells'. So would this mean that they are not spells, thus cannot be counterspelled or go towards feats that require you to be able to cast spells.

Quote from UnforgivenShadragon >>

The feature says that 'you can use your ki to duplicate the effects of certain spells'. So would this mean that they are not spells, thus cannot be counterspelled or go towards feats that require you to be able to cast spells.

 While Shadow Arts let you cast Darkness, it's cast without spell components, meaning Counterspell can't be used.

It can be used when casting the Minor Illusion cantrip though.

As for feats, it would depend on exact benefit wording.

I had 5E24 in mind, but in 5E14 Counterspell doesn't require the trigerring spells to have Verbal, Somatic, or Material components. I realised by the wording the OP is referring to it. Shadow Arts ability to cast spells would qualify for those older feats too.

Shadow Arts
You can use your ki to duplicate the effects of certain spells. As an action, you can spend 2 ki points to cast darkness, darkvision, pass without trace, or silence, without providing material components. Additionally, you gain the minor illusion cantrip if you don't already know it.