Copyright law protects visual artists and other creators of intellectual property from unauthorized use, associations or derivative works that could be damaging to the artist’s reputation, and commercial exploitation. If you are familiar with purchasing music or movies, you are aware of the efforts of artists to control the distribution of, and profits derived from their work. Securing an income from their given field of expertise is essential to the livelihood of professional artists. Thus, copyright protections promote the creation of new work by fostering an environment in which it is safe to create and share it.

Copyright, unless transferred by the artist in writing, is retained by the artist, even when a commissioned work is sold for publication in a book or incorporated into a Web site. What is most often sold is a license, or a right to use the work for a specific purpose and/or length of time. Unless otherwise outlined in a written contract signed by the artist, the copyright lies with the artist to alter, display or resell the work. The purchaser of a license reserves only the usage rights outlined in writing, signed by themselves and by the artist. Any use beyond the scope of said signed, written contract constitutes copyright infringement, and cessation may be requested by the copyright holder with the possibility of pursuit of additional damages.

Feuer Illustration always provides a written contract before beginning a new job and makes every effort to discuss, negotiate and tailor each contract until it is satisfying to both artist and client. The process is transparent, concise and facilitates open communication to forge the kind of amicable working relationships that inspired the very foundation of Feuer Illustration.

For more information on copyright law, visit the official site of the U.S. Copyright Office.