This is an alert to all artists. Recently a number of major corporations have pressured various artists in an effort to require licensing for painting particular subjects. These corporations include major automotive manufacturers, railroad companies, soft drink companies, breweries, etc. Research done by two independent law firms has shown no legal precedent requiring fine artists to obtain a license to paint
any trademark or copyrighted subject. In fact, a number of cases have been listed which support the artists right to create such subjects, partially because of * First Amendment rights *(U.S.A.).
In this widespread practice of intimidation, licensing representatives have appeared at shows, physically threatening artists, their art, theirdisplays and their vehicles unless the artist sign a licensing agreement on the spot. Previous examples of licenses signed by artists have included a commitment fee of several thousand dollars, a relinquishing of their reproduction rights, and a minimum payment of $2,500 quarterly (8 to 10 % of gross sales) which increases with each new two year contract. An artist who doesn't meet the payment schedule is in danger of losing his entire inventory when his license is revoked. Other artists have recieved numerous threatening letters to cease and desist, all creation, sales, and distribution of their art, whether it be original paintings or limited edition prints.
It is important that artists with similar interests band together to protect our rights. If you're interested in supporting such a movement, please contact,
Gordon Drysdale at (705) 693-1317 or See "ARTISTS COALITION" LINK
[email protected] for membership list |
