This is what I'm thinking about at the moment:
If one tattooer knowingly steals the artwork -- a full backpiece -- of another tattooer, copying it EXACTLY (not just using it as a derivative work but every detail is identical to the original unique work), should the artist of the original design sue, especially as it has the elements of a perfect "test case" making it the first decision on the rights of tattooists over their designs on skin?
The case could settle the tattoo copyright issue once and for all and set precedent. But the logistics of pursuing it are difficult and most importantly may harm the reputation of the artist suing -- the creator -- and not just the thief. The tattoo community largely still favors ass kickings over lawyers.
It's the reputation issue that bothers me. What do people think about tattooers suing other tattooers over large identical custom rip offs?
If one tattooer knowingly steals the artwork -- a full backpiece -- of another tattooer, copying it EXACTLY (not just using it as a derivative work but every detail is identical to the original unique work), should the artist of the original design sue, especially as it has the elements of a perfect "test case" making it the first decision on the rights of tattooists over their designs on skin?
The case could settle the tattoo copyright issue once and for all and set precedent. But the logistics of pursuing it are difficult and most importantly may harm the reputation of the artist suing -- the creator -- and not just the thief. The tattoo community largely still favors ass kickings over lawyers.
It's the reputation issue that bothers me. What do people think about tattooers suing other tattooers over large identical custom rip offs?
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marisa_dimattia:
that's what I originally thought but i've been hearing things like "pussy cry baby" passed around to describe the creator. of course, i hear these statements from disreputable artists so maybe there's the difference.
misstyrios:
I obviously know more about the legal community than the tattooing community (besides, you know, having tattoos) but I think this is something that needs to be done. I would think that any "pussy cry baby" stigma would be outweighed by the benefit this would confer on the tattoo community in general, particularly the well-known and reputable artists. It may piss off those who are willing to copy someone else's work and they may very well be the majority - but for people who take pride in their work and those who go out of their way to get work from those artists, I think it needs to be done.