Hey everyone,
We wanted to open a discussion about sharing artwork from other outlets or parts of the internet. With the internet being such a vast and dynamic space, we often come across amazing pieces of art from various sources, whether it’s social media platforms, art websites, or even personal blogs. It’s only natural to want to share these works with others, but it’s important to do so responsibly, respecting the rights of the artists who created them.
Key Points to Consider Before Sharing:
Artist Consent is Crucial
Always ensure that you have explicit permission from the artist to share their work. Even if the art is publicly posted on platforms like Twitter, Instagram, or DeviantArt, the artist still holds the copyright. Just because it’s visible doesn’t mean it’s free to share. Directly ask the artist if they’re comfortable with their work being shared, and be sure to respect their response—whether it’s a yes or no.
Respect Copyright Laws
Copyright law protects the creator’s right to control how their art is distributed, reproduced, and used. By sharing someone else’s artwork without permission, you could unintentionally infringe on their copyright, which is illegal. Always make sure to credit the artist properly and, when possible, link back to the original source of the work.
Proper Attribution
If the artist gives their consent for you to share their work, make sure to give them proper credit. This includes mentioning their name, linking to their social media or website (if they have one), and acknowledging their ownership of the artwork. Simple crediting like “Art by @username” and linking to their profile or the original source is a great start.
Avoiding Misuse
If you’re sharing artwork on a platform or forum, ensure that you’re not using the work for commercial purposes (unless you have explicit permission for that, too). Some artists may allow their work to be shared for personal use but not for profit. Always check and respect these conditions.
Sharing with Context
When you share someone else’s work, it’s important to add context. A simple caption explaining what the artwork is about, why you admire it, or sharing the artist’s intent can go a long way in fostering respect for both the work and the artist.
Why This Matters:
Sharing art responsibly helps build a supportive and respectful community where artists feel valued and protected. It also ensures that their rights are honored, which encourages them to continue creating and sharing their work. The more we respect copyright and consent, the better our creative community becomes!
Best,
The Zenkai Online Team
