How to Copyright Works of Art

Under U.S. law, you possess an understood copyright for all of your original creations from the moment they are completed. However, original ownership is often difficult to prove when having to defend your property, which can even leave you vulnerable to a loss of potential income in some circumstances. The best and most effective way to ensure that you receive everything--emotional and fiscal, tangible and intangible--that your artistic creations have to give is to formally copyright your pieces.

Instructions

1. Determine whether or not your art is able to be copyrighted. To be eligible, according to the U.S. Copyright Office, it must fall into one of eight recognized categories: literary works; musical works; dramatic works; pantomime or choreography; pictorial, graphic and sculptural works; audiovisual works such as motion pictures; sound recordings; and architectural designs.

2. Apply for a copyright either by mail or online. To apply by mail, contact the U.S. Copyright Office by telephone at [phone] and request that they send you a (visual arts) VA form.

3. Fill out the VA form upon receipt, using only black ink and clear, legible handwriting.

4. Prepare a copy of your piece to send in with the form. The piece will not be returned, so do not send the original.

5. Fill out a check or money order to pay the registration fee required for your copyright. The copyright office will be able to tell you how much your fee is.

6. Attach a slip of paper with your name and address to the check or money order using a paperclip in case your payment is separated from your paperwork.

7. Place the form, copy of your work and payment in an envelope to be mailed. You might want to take this to the post office to be weighed to ensure that you use the correct postage.

8. Send your packet to:
   Library of Congress
   U.S. Copyright Office
   101 Independence Avenue SE
   Washington, DC 20559-6211

   The last four digits of the zip code are specific to the office for visual arts.

9. To apply online, go to the U.S. Copyright Office website, click on the "forms" link, and choose the eCO form. There is an online payment form available for your fees.

10. Treat your copyright just like any other valuable possession. Its ownership could pay generous dividends. Rent a safety deposit box or purchase a safe if you do not have one and keep a copy of your copyright documentation there once you receive it. You may also file a copy with your attorney and make provisions for its inheritance in your will.

References

• Website: Copyright Basics