How to get a copywrite

[Susan Slack]

I have just finished a drawing that I plan to use in my work. Do any of you have an idea of how I go about getting a copywrite on it?

[Brian]

You have the copyright from the time you create the work. Nothing else required on your part.

You can identify the copyright or not (e.g., copyright 2003 Your Name), and you can register the copyright or not.

For more information:
http://www.loc.gov/copyright/

[Paul Housberg]

[quote="Brian"]You have the copyright from the time you create the work. Nothing else required on your part.

But, if you're truly worried about copyright infringement and can see yourself going after the infringer, it's a good idea to register the copyright. Of course, suing an infringer rarely makes sense for most of us.

[camaro]

Yes it is true, anything that is created and tangible is auto copyrighted, however, I am an artist in a variety of mediums, and if you have several drawings that you would like to protect for any future publishing then, gather them up, list each individual drawing, name each and submit to money I belive it something like $ 20.00 to the gov. However to save money, make copies of your originals, put the originals together and certify mail them back to yourself. That way should you find your art done by someone else, you can take further action.
Camaro

[Dani]

You can also batch copyright a body of work... something like "A Group of drawings by xxxx First Quarter 2004"... I think it's now $30 unless the cost went up again. All the forms can be downloaded. Lots in the archives here, too.

[rosanna gusler]

good article on this in art calalder mag this issue. i skipped through it. something like if you do not register you can stop someone from using your work but you can not sue for damages. rosanna