By Alexa Donovan
“No matter your educational journey, there are a couple of things that artists just don’t learn about the profession… Chief among these massive knowledge gaps? Any guidance in contracts or trademark and copyright for artists, two intimidatingly legal tent-poles that hold up any sturdy tent of an artistic career.” ~ Suzy Kopf, fine artist and writer.[1]
Suzy Kopf is right — legal issues are not often the immediate concern of an artist, especially when all is going smoothly in their practice. Despite this, all artists have legal issues to consider.[2] Everything from intellectual property and copyright infringements to estate planning, contract negotiations, and moral rights plague artists worldwide each day.
Bobby Rubio, an animator, often shares his work on instagram. One day, he came to find out that a character of his had been printed on a collector’s football card without his permission. His work had been stolen by a corporation with no credit, and he had no idea until his friend congratulated him for the “collaboration.” When Rubio sought legal advice, his lawyers told him that suing the company would result in mere “pocket change” if he won, presumably taking into account legal fees.[3]
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