1. Protecting artwork
a. Do I need to be concerned with copyright if I show my work in galleries?
Yes. Copyright governs the display of your works. Even though you legally retain your copyright after you sell your tangible work when you transfer it to a buyer, it is wise to ensure that the purchaser understands this, and that your copyright is protected before the work leaves your possession.
b. Do I need to be concerned with copyright if my work is produced for publication?
Yes—even more than someone whose work is primarily shown in galleries. Copyright governs the reproduction of your work, which means that you have to be aware of—and protect—your copyrights when your work is reproduced in any way, whether in gallery catalogs, in any form of printed matter, on websites, or on merchandise.
c. Can I copyright or trademark my artistic style?
No. “Style” is not copyrightable, but copyright may cover elements of an image which you have created if someone else copies it.