Legal resource

As artists, we know that sometimes the law can either help us out, or really get in the way. Plagiarism and copyright infringements can be clear-cut when discussing literature or commercial situations, but what about fine art? After all, Shepard Fairey is in a world of trouble right now for using an AP photograph for the basis of his Obama Hope posters. While it can't take the place of a really good lawyer, I did come across a decent website with information for us. StarvingArtistsLaw.com, while the design is primitive at best, actually provides some really good information.

Ask the Lawyer

The New York Public Library is a great resource for public lecture and talks. On Monday, May 11 at 6:30 p.m., at the Mid-Manhattan Library(455 5th Avenue), a pretty resourceful lecture will take place:

"Ask the Lawyer - An Artist Career Development Lecture," with Elena M. Paul, ESQ. and Alexei Ormani Auld, ESQ.

This interactive panel presentation with a question-and-answer format will cover a wide array of legal and business issues with an overview of the major legal topics affecting artists and professionals within arts organizations. The topics to be addressed include:Intellectual Property (copyrights primarily), Contracts,Entity Choice and Formation including nonprofit and for profit options.