B.Y.O.B {Q&A} Lori McNee

tell us a bit about yourself : name, business, profession, years in business, etc. (describe your style and medium), website, blog. For as long as I can remember, I have always been fascinated with birds. As a young girl, I would save injured birds and nurse them back to health. Sometimes, I would try to catch the birds that flocked to our yard. Finally, I decided to capture the birds on paper with a pencil. I have been drawing and painting birds and nature ever since!

Now, I have been a professional painter for nearly 20 years and I have been featured in The Huffington Post, Western Art Collector, South West Art Magazine, Wildlife Art Magazine, Art Talk Magazine, American Art Collector, Sun Valley Magazine, Sun Valley Guide, Plum TV, and many newspapers. Lori is a member and exhibits with Oil Painters of America in Regional and National Exhibitions. My paintings are sold in galleries throughout the United States.

Besides painting, I am also a professional blogger, art marketing expert and a public speaker. I share art tips, social media and business advice on her popular blog Fine Art Tips and was named,"Top 10 Up and Coming Women Bloggers," and currently ranks as one of the "Most Influential Artists” on Twitter and "The Top 100 Most Powerful Women on Twitter” and was named a “TwitterPowerhouse” by The Huffington Post. Lori is a writer for North Light Books, The Artist’s Magazine blog and The Artists Network blog. She has been featured on the Art Heroes Blog, BlogTalkFM, Fine Art Views, Art Flow Magazine, Barney Davey’s Blog, and My Money Blog to name a few. To learn more about me, Lori McNee please visit, http://LoriMcNee.com or http://FineArtTips.com

have you ever been copied (your work, art, ideas?) Yes, over the years I have been the recipient of copyright infringement for my paintings and lately, my writings have been directly copied. My still life paintings are recognizable and unique. Sporadically, over the past ten years I have found copies of my still life paintings in other countries including China, India, an Arab country, and most recently, Mexico. Years ago, I even found my artwork being reproduced as wallpaper. Last year, I discovered a ‘copycat artist’ on Facebook from Mexico who was (and probably still is) directly copying my paintings and signing his own name on them. Also, there are a handful of artists within the United States that copy the ‘idea’ of my still life paintings. In fact, this has even happened to me within my own hometown! At home, I am exclusively represented by the nationally known, highly regarded Kneeland Gallery http://kneelandgallery.com . A few years ago, a new gallery popped up in town and began showing paintings that were very similar to my still life works – the theme, color, compositions, even the birds and vases. This is a disreputable practice for any professional art gallery to follow, and sure enough, when the economy crashed, this gallery was forced to close its doors. Also, now that I am a blogger, I have to contend with my original content being stolen or slightly modified from my blog without attribution. With the popularity of blogging, this is a common problem in the blogsphere. I now use a plug-in that helps track when and where my content goes when it leaves my site.

how did it make you feel? Of course, this is a very disconcerting situation to have happen to any artist, writer, or creative person. My initial reaction was to defend my ‘rights’ as the copyright owner.

what did you do about it? In the past, and most recently after the Facebook ‘copycat’ incident, I have consulted attorneys. But, unfortunately Copyright Law is a very complex subject and expensive to pursue. It is frustrating that the law always seems to protect the criminal. It is especially tough to pursue any copyright infringement outside of our own country.

I filed a formal complaint with Facebook and they immediately shut down the fake artist’s account. There was overwhelming support from my Facebook friends who blocked this man’s account and complained as well.

I thought we beat him, but unfortunately, a few months later a fellow Facebook artist found the copycat back on Facebook again with a new profile. However, he was still showcasing the copies of my paintings! Once again, Facebook shut him down and yet again he was back up and running…I finally decided to stop chasing my tail on this one.

Here is the complete story :

http://www.finearttips.com/2010/07/how-i-stopped-a-copycat-artist-on-facebook


do you feel "copying" is black and white... or is there gray area? For as long as there has been art, artists have been inspired by and copying each other, for this is how we learn. It is not uncommon for artists to be influenced by other great artists; in fact this is often reflected within our own artwork. However, a direct copy is undoubtedly wrong, as well as any piece of artwork or writing that can be identified as a close copy of another’s original work.

(like copying ONE of something just for yourself vs. a manufacturer copying an item and mass marketing?) Copying another artist’s painting or other art form for your own personal achievement or learning experience is acceptable. Back when I was just beginning in oil paints, I copied a Richard Schmid painting from one of his books for my own learning experience. I followed his palette and did my best to ‘copy’ his brushwork. Pleased with the result, I even framed the little 12x9 inch painting and signed it, “Lori McNee after Richard Schmid”. This is the proper way to display a painting that has been copied from another’s work. Plus, these types of paintings should never be sold or publically displayed.

what is your creative outlet? I enjoy the camaraderie of getting together with my fellow artists for painting outings. Also, I love to listen to classical music and my water fountain while I paint.

how/from who/ where do you seek inspiration? I am inspired by many of the great artists before me including the Dutch painters, the Luminists and Tonalist painters as well as some contemporary artists with whom I have had the pleasure of painting.

why do you thing "copying" is bad? Copying is wrong because someone else is trying to profit from your years of hard work and inspiration without attribution.

what do you think could be done to eliminate copying? (Realistically or otherwise!) As I mentioned above, the laws are complicated and I discovered that it is very costly to pursue a case. It seems there should be an easier way to prove blatant copyright infringement. I believe the outcome should result in fines to the plagiarizer and compensation to be made to the injured party.

please define, in your words the concept of - "inspired by vs. copied from" Inspiration and concept are not easy to copyright. But again, when the artwork in question is compared to the original and can easily be recognized as an overt copy of someone else’s artwork or writing, this is then infringement.

define what "original" means to you. An original work of art is fresh and inventive approach toward a subject. It is not an imitation of another. However, the artist should feel free to create a series within his or her own primary art form from which varieties are derived.

do you have a favorite inspirational/motivational/ creative quote or mantra? I am a bit of a quote junkie. I have been collecting quotes for years. There are a few that really stand out, but I particularly find the following quote relevant to both art and life.

“Life isn’t about finding yourself, Life is about creating yourself.”

find more about Lori here:

http://finearttips.com

http://lorimcnee.com

http://www.facebook.com/FineArtTips

http://twitter.com/lorimcneeartist

(as per Lori... ) For more information regarding copyright protection, please read:

http://www.finearttips.com/2011/02/tips-to-best-copyright-protect-your-artwork

http://www.finearttips.com/2010/07/how-i-stopped-a-copycat-artist-on-facebook

B.Y.O.B {Q&A} Sharyn Sowell

tell us a bit about yourself : name, business, profession, years in business, etc. (describe your style and medium), website, blog. I'm Sharyn Sowell, and when I cleaned my studio last week I discovered samples from my first licensing deal... ten years ago!

My mediums have changed over the years as I've enjoyed exploring and realized that change is essential to survival. I am convinced that for me, following trends is impossible so I don't even try. I am a horrible imitation of someone else but fairly good at just being me, so I work hard every day to be the best me I can be. I adore form and shape, and am known for my silhouettes. But I also work in letterpress printing, calligraphy and photography, and am experimenting with watercolor and blending inks and paints.

My website is www.sharynsowell.com and I blog at www.sharynsowellartblog.blogspot.com. I perpetually feel that my website is out of date and awful but wearing all the hats to run one's business alone seems to mean that there is never enough time to do it all and my website is one of the areas I need to work harder at (surely I am not alone in this!)

I remember when I was just start and I met a very gifted older man who was an architect by profession and a fabulous oil painter as well. When he asked to see my work I cringed. I'd always felt I was a poor excuse for an artist, that I could design jewelry "but nothing else, because I'm not really very good." This gentleman looked at my work and said, "You can really draw! Oh yes, you have a unique look at the world, you have found your own special style." And I was shocked! Flattered. I almost floated home, to tell my husband, "I can draw! He said I have my own style!" I went to work with renewed vigor and launched my business the next spring.

This man had given me the gift of the seed of confidence. I try to pass it on to younger artists. The ability to draw, and to find your own individual voice is so important. I know other artists who say they can "be" anyone, can emulate any style. I am glad I can't do that, thankful that I am only able to be me. It can be hard to be different sometimes and it can be a lonely path, but I am coming to see that being only yourself and becoming comfortable in your own skin and content to be who you are is a wonderful blessing.

have you ever been copied (your work, art, ideas?) I've been copied so many times. Two stand out. Once when I walked into a major store (I won't name names for legal reasons) in early December and saw a mashup of designs a paper products manufacturer had left with them for consideration in a planogram... My work was remixed and hanging as the main display and on product all over the store. I was literally sick and had to leave the store. My attorney said I couldn't fight it because I had no receipt for the exact work that was left since the manufacturer didn't ask for one when it was left, and that the legal bills would be staggering and pointless, since this huge corporation has very deep pockets and I do not. Needless to say I don't shop that store. Ever.

Another time I was at the Atlanta January show and a client told me there was someone in the temporaries whose work resembled mine. It not only resembled mine, it WAS mine. It was a small wholesaler. I confronted her, she admitted she knew it was my work but since I live in the Pacific Northwest she didn't expect me to show up in Atlanta. "And anyway," she told me, "I didn't steal your work. I was just borrowing your pictures."

I was shocked at how angry I felt. I've been copied before but this time I was face to face with the person who did it and she showed no remorse. I told her to hand me three pieces NOW, which I would send to my attorney. When she told me it was hers, I said it's not a problem. I whipped out my cell phone and began to call the police. I told her we'd let them sort it out, since there was product upstairs with the same images on it. The lady handed me the samples, we were both shaking visibly, and I sent her a cease and desist letter. I've kept track of her since but she has not copied my images again.

how did it make you feel? Angry. Sad. Frustrated. But I am reminded of a comment a cop made to me years ago when I was ripped off at a street fair. "At least you were not the thief," he told me. "You'll leave at the end of the day with your integrity intact, you'll sleep well tonight, and you will get past this. The person who stole from you gained only something they thought they wanted. They threw away their integrity and no matter how hard they try to justify it to themselves, somewhere deep down they still feel dirty and ashamed. Whether they admit it or not they know they did something wrong today." He was right. Someone can steal your idea or your design, but we don't have to become victims. We can do our best to defend ourselves, but then it's important to move on and not become a bitter and angry person. We can choose to live each new day with joy and creativity, not looking back.

what did you do about it? See above

do you feel "copying" is black and white... or is there gray area?

(like copying ONE of something just for yourself vs. a manufacturer copying an item and mass marketing?) It's just wrong. Once you allow yourself to go down that slippery slope you've lost your own unique vision. I avoid looking at anyone's work if I feel it might migrate into my own. I just don't want to go there. Others have to decide for themselves but for me there is no gray area.

what is your creative outlet? I'm addicted to sketching, photography and letterpress printing. I am mad over anything paper and ink and nibs. Scissors make my fingers itch. Besides art I love gardening, hiking, reading and baking. And I can never get enough of spending time with small groups of friends.

how/from who/ where do you seek inspiration? My garden, neighbors, and family are inspiring to me. I also work for cruise ship companies as artist on board a few times a year so I get to travel, and that is endlessly inspiring. I also wake up in the night with ideas, which I sketch on a little pad with a stubby pencil. I draw in the dark, a fact my husband finds amusing!

why do you thing "copying" is bad? Besides hurting someone else, besides the fact that stealing is wrong, it also completely silences your own creativity and ruins your self esteem.

what do you think could be done to eliminate copying? (realistically or otherwise!)

I believe it is becoming more rampant because people are accustomed to snatching stuff so freely from the internet that IP seems far less someone's property than it was in the past. People seem to believe that they are entitled to everything for free. Those who would be horrified at the idea of stealing something rip off images without a thought. They don't recognise that it's theft.

One first step would be for visual artists to do what the music industry did a few years back when they made a big stink about music being downloaded without compensation or authorization. It's a difficult task but I think we could go a long way by finding out how the music industry conquered the issue. At least it would be a start.

please define, in your words the concept of - "inspired by vs. copied from"

Inspired by... If I see something that makes me think of a twist that is completely different I have not stolen. I saw a leaf with a particular cast of green and I went into the studio and created a piece with a similar green. That's inspiration. I saw a relief panel in Florence that made me think I could do something similar with my silhouettes. That's also inspiration. Copying...If I see someone else's work and try to make a piece like it, I have become a thief.

define what "original" means to you. Original to me means being myself, doing the hard work of discovering my own style and valuing myself enough to be satisfied with my own best. It means growing into better and better work and appreciating others. Original means that God made me, me and you, you. And we accept that instead of wanting what we see in someone else.

do you have a favorite inspirational/motivational/ creative quote or mantra?

I collect quotes so choosing only one is like picking a favorite chocolate,

which we all know is impossible. But here are a couple of my faves:

Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not; the world is full of educated failures. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent.- Calvin Coolidge

I am here for a purpose and that purpose is to grow into a mountain, not to shrink to a grain of sand. Henceforth will I apply all my efforts to become the highest mountain of all and I will strain my potential until it cries for mercy. - Og Mandino

Alice Laughed, "There's no use in trying", she said. "One Can't believe in Impossible Things!"

"I dare say you haven't had much practice", said the Queen."When I was your age, I always did it for half an hour a day. Why, sometimes I've believed as many as Six impossible things before breakfast!" - Lewis Carroll

quoted..

"In order to be irreplaceable one must always be different" - Coco Chanel

well said.

right to the point, huh?

i'm loving this smart poster by Haley Querro.

find it here.

B.Y.O.B {Q&A} Lyndsay Johnson

Tell us a bit about yourself : name, business, profession, years in business, etc. (describe your style and medium), website, blog.

My name is Lyndsay Johnson, and I have been a graphic designer and illustrator for over 10 years. I have worked primarily in print design (publishing, scrapbook paper & product design, personal branding & identity, to name a few). But I also love design and illustration for children and family. In recent years I’ve branched out to blog design. And currently do a bit of that, along with my online shop, Sprig & Sprocket, where I sell fresh and fun designs. I’ve reigned it in since having children (I have two very spirited little ones). I am a stay at home mom now, happy to work on creative efforts whenever I have the time.

My shop:

www.zazzle.com/sprigandsprocket

My blogs:

www.lyndsayjohnsonblog.com

www.theblogguidebook.com

have you ever been copied (your work, art, ideas?)

I think it’s hard not to be copied when you are part of an online community (whether it be blogging, Etsy, etc.). I see other designers who have a very similar style to mine Iand vice versa). I think the closest anyone has come to copying me would be with blog design. I design Stephanie Nielson’s blog (www.nieniedialogues.com). And I saw very similar blog styles cropping up everywhere when I first started working on her new blog style. Blog designers were quickly making that their new signature style.

How did it make you feel?

I tried not to take it too seriously. Since I knew it was a style that was starting to catch on anyway, it was just a matter of time. And I didn’t solely inspire the trend, of course. I just recognized something that people were gravitating towards, Stephanie especially, and went from there. So I just tried to take it as a compliment, and realized that in most cases, my style and craftsmanship were more experienced and cleaner than some of the other attempts.

What did you do about it? I make sure that I always include a copyright statement whenever I post my designs, or in my shop (for example: “ All designs are © Lyndsay Johnson. Any copying is unlawful.”).

(if you haven't been copied directly - have you seen it happen - how did you feel?) did you confront the situation? I have seen many friends copied in their work. Etsy jewelry artists, especially. And it’s awful! It leaves them feeling like the quality of their work is diminished, their creativity lessened. I have one friend in particular. Her designs are often poorly copied, and they sell for less, so people buy them more readily. And it has left such a sour taste in her mouth, that she often talks about not wanting to design anymore. This is a real problem, because over time copying can lead to a decline in quality. When artists who lack original ideas start pushing out the trendsetters, then we are left with poor copycats.

do you feel "copying" is black and white... or is there gray area?

(like copying ONE of something just for yourself vs. a manufacturer copying an item and mass marketing?)

I do think there is a gray area. I have been inspired to create items that I couldn’t afford to buy myself, or were not available at the time. So I recreated the design for personal use only. But I made sure to change the initial design enough, so that I left my own fingerprint. Here is one example:

http://www.lyndsayjohnsonblog.com/2010/12/wess-handmade-gift.html

It’s important to note that I share a style that is part of a popular niche right now. And we often share similar (sometimes identical) text/phrases on our posters. But I have not copied that style to define myself as a designer. It’s been a natural development of my personal design style. I try to keep that in mind when I am creating, so that I produce something slightly different from what others are offering. Also, when I am referencing other illustrations while creating my own, I absolutely change it enough (the general rule is 20%, but overcompensate when unsure). And when I do use stock illustrations in my designs, I purchase them (from istockphoto.com, for instance). Here is an example:

http://www.lyndsayjohnsonblog.com/2010/08/giveaway-new-etsy-shop-additions-and.html

what is your creative outlet? Design and Digital Illustration for my online shop. It is the most enjoyable form of design for me, creating something that is not for a client. I love illustration, as well, when I have time. And I also write, but that’s more of a personal pursuit at the moment.

how/from who/ where do you seek inspiration? I love modernism, and Scandinavian design, paper & textiles, architechture, children’s books. On a more internal level: song lyrics, unexpected color palettes in nature, spiritual/inspirational quotes. And of course I am inspired by other designers. We will always be inspired by other works of art.

why do you thing "copying" is bad? I think it can be dangerous. If you see and are inspired by someone’s work, that’s one thing. But taking credit for someone else’s original idea is obviously wrong. It’s important to delineate between copying and inspiration. Listen to your gut. If you feel bad about being too closely inspired, it might be copying.

what do you think could be done to eliminate copying? (realistically or otherwise!) I don’t think it can ever be totally eliminated. But we can take a personal stand against it. It’s a moral choice, really. And we can promote original work and discourage copying within our own creative communities. And certainly throughout the blogosphere. Also, if there are other artists who share a very similar style (which is common, and certainly in my specific line of work), befriend them. Create a community. Help promote and encourage each other, so that no one is harboring feelings of resentment—a sure creativity killer.

please define, in your words the concept of - "inspired by vs. copied from" Well, there is the famous quote by Pablo Picasso, “Good artists copy, great artists steal.” One of my graduate school professors told us this. And I remember it often. Because when we all continue to copy each other’s work, we are left with mediocre, unoriginal work. But when someone sees an idea, then takes it to a whole new level, something new is born. “Steal” isn’t necessarily a bad term here (unlike “stealing” someone’s design and literally saying it is your own). Stealing here refers to seeing something and recognizing that you could take it somewhere it hasn’t gone yet. It’s owning it. That’s healthy and essential artistic progression.

define what "original" means to you. It’s a feeling for me. It can be a subtle difference, often intangible. Two products can be similar. But when true talent is coming through behind design of any kind, you just know it. It’s exciting. It’s what makes you want to own/wear/view/hear/experience that piece of work. It’s also the same thing that causes people to want to copy. Originality is a highly coveted thing!

do you have a favorite inspirational/motivational/ creative quote or mantra? I have this printed out above my desk:

“Creativity comes from trust. Trust your instincts. And never hope more than you work.” ~Rita Mae Brown

"be inspired BLOG HOP"

please HOP on over to the creatives that participated in todays "be inspired" blog hop.

TOPIC : The only criteria is to show the proper way to be inspired by other's creative work but not cross the line into infringement, either by way of lawful infringement or by ethics. As we continue to try to educate, one way to do so is to show by example. So... some of the industry's most creative "creatives" will blog about "inspiration vs. copying"

please "click" on thru... read'em all! some wonderful messages!

http://joannezsharpe.blogspot.com/2011/03/find-your-beautiful-voice.html

http://sharynsowellartblog.blogspot.com/2011/03/be-inspired.html

http://embellishmentskids.blogspot.com/2011/03/be-inspired-blog-hop-aaron-christensens.html

http://chrischunart.blogspot.com/2011/03/be-inspired-blog-hop.html

http://www.vickieleastudios.com/art-licensing/so-what-inspires-you-a-discussion-about-originals/

http://www.brendapinnick.com/2011/03/02/be-inspired/

http://itsmollysmith.blogspot.com/2011/03/be-inspired-designer-blog-hop.html

http://www.droozdoodles.com/2011/03/be-inspired-blog-hop.html

http://phyllisdobbs.info/2011/03/02/creative-inspiration/

http://www.jgoode.com/its-about-inspiration-not-duplication/

http://suezipkin.typepad.com/blogging_with_dyslexia/2011/03/be-inspired-create-from-your-heart.html

http://bethparkerart.wordpress.com/

http://robinpickens.blogspot.com/2011/03/inspiration-origins-blog-hop.html

http://monicaleestudios.com/blog/on-being-originalpart-2/

http://janemadayblog.blogspot.com/2011/03/sweet-inspirations.html

B.Y.O.B {Q&A} Jamie Lentzner

tell us a bit about yourself : name, business, profession, years in business, etc. (describe your style and medium), website, blog. Jamie Lentzner, owner and founder of Jamie's Painting & Design. I am an artist first and a business owner second. I make & design children's keepsakes, wall art and gifts. I have been in business for 8 years. I would call my artwork whimsical and fun. Most of my products are ceramic or porcelain, but I am starting to work with other mediums this year. The way I like to work is by getting inspiration from many different places, whether it be a magazine, a new color combination or a suggestion from one of my children. www.jamiespnd.com

My blog www.jpd.typepad.com is about my experience as an artist, an entrepreneur and a mother. I share a lot about my life, probably too much if you ask my husband.

have you ever been copied (your work, art, ideas?) Yes I have had my work copied, heck for as long as I have been an artist I have had my work copied. My designs have been copied, my products have been copied, even the wording I use to describe my products has been copied.

how did it make you feel? Wow, I feel like I am in a therapy session. Well, at first it was anger and then pretty much I felt hopeless about it. It also frightened me because I had seen it done in the past and I assumed that it would affect my sales. Since it was out of my control I tried not to focus too much on it.

what did you do about it? First, I did not keep quiet about it, and I recommend that to everyone I know. For me that meant blogging. I blogged about it a lot. I called you on the phone if you remember correctly ;). I relied on my other artist friends quite a bit. The blogging was very therapeutic and I was able to meet a large number of successful women who felt just like I did. I contacted the culprit a few times via email, but that did not do much good. Second, I got creative - it really puts a creative spark in me when it happens.

do you feel "copying" is black and white... or is there gray area? Well, I think once you open up the gray area you are going down a very slippery slope. I have heard other artists say it was just an "inspiration" or "If everyone else is doing it why can't I?" Or my favorite was, "You can't copyright a polkadot!". I feel copying is copying and either you are guilty or you are not. What I find upsetting is that some of the biggest culprits are the companies that sell our products. They have been known to actually ask me to make a product "like" another artist.

(like copying ONE of something just for yourself vs. a manufacturer copying an item and mass marketing?) I guess if you copy someone's art and just hang it in your living room and don't try to re-sell it then sure - knock yourself out. But if you copy a design and then try to market it - you have stepped over the line. I actually think that most people that copy really do not think they are copying, they might assume their idea was original. However, when I design a product and then I go on line and see my competition and I see a design that looks JUST like mine - I leave that design out my line. I have scruples, and I don't think everyone does.

what is your creative outlet? My home, my garden, my children's rooms. I love to re-decorate my house, or move things around. My friends are always teasing me when they come over because I am constantly switching things around. Sometimes I will paint something just for me or my children.

how/from who/ where do you seek inspiration? From everywhere I think. I get it from clothing designs, color combinations, magazines and books. I have the hardest time at Christmas time when I get on sensory overload from all the decorations in the stores, magazines, television - everywhere I look I see ideas and inspirations for Christmas products, but I am usually so busy I have to just jot the ideas down and come back to them when I start developing holiday products.

why do you thing "copying" is bad? I guess because being a creative person I have no patience for it. I can not understand why you can't come up with your own idea. It just cheapens the original design.

what do you think could be done to eliminate copying? (realistically or otherwise!) Sadly nothing can be done in general - it will always be there. However, again I say don't be quiet about it. Talk about it, educate artists on what is inspiration and what is outright copying.

please define, in your words the concept of - "inspired by vs. copied from" Funny, I did not even see this question and that was my last answer ;). My new designs were inspired by Pottery Barn Kids Bedding Designs. I looked at their catalogs, I looked at the colors, the patterns and the feel of the room. I did not copy the art, I did not see a piece of art on the wall and copy it. Copying is when the entire design is clearly a rip-off of the original. When the artist has almost every aspect of the original design.

define what "original" means to you. Original, unique - think of "The Cheese stands alone" or "One of these kids is doing their own thing" from Sesame Street. It is very clear who is original and who is not. To have the ability to see things different than everyone else. To take it to the next level and/or to do it different than ANYONE else.

do you have a favorite inspirational/motivational/ creative quote or mantra?

"Well behaved women rarely make history"