Recently, a company approached me to inquire about using my artwork in their advertising campaign. I was thrilled at the opportunity. Considering my longstanding involvement in the community since the beginning of my digital journey. This offer represented a chance for my artwork to gain the recognition it deserves.
As any artist will tell you, the hardest part is turning your artwork into an actual business. Anyway, I replied, “Of course you can, how wonderful that you’ve chosen me, as long as you credit me in the campaign.”
I wasn’t asking for monetary credit, simply that they put something like “artwork by Robz Lipner.” I thought this would be a reasonable request.
To which that company replied, “I’m sorry, but we are not able to do that, and therefore we cannot use your work. We are looking for amateur artwork to help promote our company.”
Feeling both angry and saddened by this, I made the decision to create a blog post discussing the importance of crediting artists.
So when does an Artist require credit:
The short answer, in my eyes, is ALWAYS.
When seeking an artwork for personal or business purposes, there are two possible approaches: either through a commission where the company hires an artist to create a design exclusively for them, with the company acquiring full ownership upon purchase, or by utilizing an artist's existing work, where the artist is acknowledged or compensated. Ultimately, both parties need to reach a mutually beneficial agreement, with compensation being either exposure or financial.
In any case, there must be a positive outcome for all involved.
This, in my eyes, is the correct way to do things!
The challenges facing the art industry are well-known to all of us. We understand the impact of AI on our livelihoods and the struggle for visibility in a crowded field. We are striving for acknowledgment and cannot afford to give away our valuable designs without receiving anything in return.
Photographer: Pauline Duczaman @pduczman
When it comes to giving credit for the use of photography...
I recall taking a photo from Pinterest and transforming it into an artistic piece. Subsequently, I shared it within another community I belong to, and it was rightfully pointed out that my submission couldn't be accepted without permission from the original photographer. I then obtained the necessary authorization. The photographer graciously granted permission, emphasizing the importance of giving credit. Most individuals are willing to allow the use of their work in exchange for acknowledgment, and that is the key word: "credit."
This is how things should be done!
Discussing the use of other artists' work for inspiration, I greatly admire the artistic creations of Deb Weiers, a Canadian artist who initially inspired my Quirky faces. I am fond of her unique style, that acts as a common source
of inspiration for my own work. (By the way, I sought her permission beforehand.) Occasionally, I may reinterpret something in my own artistic voice. In such instances, I consistently acknowledge and credit her influence in my posts. This practice is essential and respectful.
Artist: Deb Weiers @debweiersart
I began my artistic journey by coloring other people's line art, which meant that the artwork did not belong to me. Despite doing this for years, I felt frustrated by the lack of recognition I received because I didn't own the original designs. This frustration ultimately inspired me to create my own artwork in my unique style. The path to establishing myself as an artist has been challenging, marked by frustration and setbacks. However, I am committed to growth and progress, pushing myself every day. Small victories, compliments, and instances where others appreciate and purchase my work motivate me to keep going. It saddens and angers me when people ask to use my hard-earned creations without offering anything in return.
Lastly, if you are unsure, it is crucial to always give credit in any manner possible!
The artist deserves recognition!
Final words… YOU GOT THIS!
If this resonates with you in any way, please give it a like and follow my socials for further advice.
Thanx,
Robz Lipner
Well said! I’m so sorry they called your work ‘amateur’ but please know it most certainly is not. I always view your art in awe and with with respect because it’s far beyond my artistic skills. You absolutely deserve to be credited and good on you for recognizing your worth and not allowing companies to take advantage of you. Shame on them! I will share this with my Procreate Beginners community because these types of businesses love to target new businesses in the hopes they don’t yet realize their value. Glad they chose the wrong one to mess with! 😂