Merry Christamas-Giveaway

Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas,

I truly hope you are enjoying your holiday with your family, friends and loved ones. 

My family and I had a wonderful Christmas. My kids and dogs make it so much fun. In fact, my children are also creative in music and received some new cymbals, guitar stands, books and amplifiers. Meanwhile, I created some special gifts out of my art for my kids, and was extremely happy with the quality of work my suppliers produced with my art. 

Commissioned Christmas Gifts and Art For Home Decor

I know, I know, I know it's been forever since I've posted work, but I just finished the last of 3 secret commissions for Christmas gifts. One of them couldn't wait until Christmas, so I'll be posting soon. Meanwhile, I've been creating some digital art that makes some great home decor during times I haven't had to break out the oil paints. You can find them on Society 6 and Cafe Press which I may move to Zazzle due to very slow server issues with Cafe Press. 



Also, I have a great new Google Plus page that showcases unique Art products from all types of artists. You can find works from Jewelry to sculptures, to totes, home decor and paintings. I hope you will take a look from time to time. After all, you may just find that special little Christmas gift you've been looking for. Just see this link to take a peek. https://plus.google.com/u/0/communities/101214767266215352448
There you will also find links to my accounts.

Yin Yang Rug

Keep an eye out for paintings to show up after Christmas. There will be museum quality canvas prints available.

Next I'm doing a painting for my son's room that I promised a long time ago and another commission. I'm going to try to get another original complete in between.

How A Seemingly Harmless Share Can Get You Sued Under Copyright Infringement

Social Media is exploding and so is the increasing popularity of sharing gorgeous photos and artwork. Just take a look at Pinterest, Google Plus, Facebook and Instagram (and that's just naming a few) and you will see virtually a never ending supply of photos and artwork. After all, who doesn't like to see beautiful photos?

But wait, a seemingly innocent click to share something beautiful may have its repercussions under Copyright Law resulting in a Copyright Infringement Lawsuit. This post relates to United States Copyright Law which seems to be in line with the Copyright Laws in the UK. Most countries, but not all have copyright law, but US copyright law does not apply to other countries. See below for information about International Copyright Laws.

So what applies to United States Copyright Law?

1. A work is automatically protected by copyright when it is created.
2. Anyone wishing to use the work of another must have permission from the owner of the copyright holder
3. Buying a piece of art or a print doesn't dismiss copyright.

What About International Copyright?

While according to Copyright.gov, there is no such thing as International Copyright, protection against unauthorized use rather protection depends on that country's laws. Also, most country's offer protection on foreign works under certain conditions by the  two principal International Copyright Treaties: Berne Convention and Universal Copyright Convention (UCC). Clicking on the link above provides much greater detail.

IMPORTANT: 
Copyright Infringement is not excused by

Linking back to the work
Reducing the size
No Profit
Sharing
Including a Disclaimer
Attributing the Creator

With all due respect, these regulations need to be taken more seriously by society. In fact, just imagine, you are an architecht, inventor, salesperson, or any other business person. How would it feel if someone stole your draft, idea, sales strategy, plans, etc... Even worse is if they took it and took the credit for your idea/work. I'd wager that most would be raging mad. After all, the images and works produced by Artists and photographers are their livelihood and often their sole source of income.  

How do you find out if it's okay to use a photo?

1. Ask the Photographer
2. Search for Creative Commons Licensed Work
3. Search for Open Source works


On that note, with proper attribution included, anyone is free to share my photos or artwork on social media.


Below are some useful links. 

Wikipedia on Copyright infringement

Professional Photographers of America on Copyright

Copyright infringement Lawsuit covered by Forbes

http://blog.kenkaminesky.com/photography-copyright-and-the-law/

by Tina A Stoffel

sources: Copyright.gov, Wikipedia, Professional Photographers of America, Clip art provided by Creative Commons Open Clip Art

How To Care For Your Original Oil Painting

Caring for your painting is pretty easy. It has a varnish on it that will help protect it from dust, dirt, sun damage and elements. However, do try to avoid direct exposure to sunlight.

1. Dust your painting as needed with a soft dry cloth. Never use cleaners, furniture polish or any other chemicals on your painting.
   
2. Your painting will take 6 months to 1 year to dry. There are debates that it could take longer, but this is the standard amount of time, so let your painting breathe. Do not cover in plastic.
   
3. If you will be moving or need to store your painting, Loosely cover the painting with release paper. Glassine or wax paper is okay if you are not in a warm, humid climate. Wrap with bubble wrap and store in a box marked fragile. Do not pile heavy objects on top.
   
4. Avoid direct sunlight that can cause cracking and fading.
5. If your original painting is damaged by smoke, fire or water, it could be restored. See a professional art restoration company for an evaluation.
   
6. Protect your painting from water. If it should come in contact with water. Dry immediately with a soft dry cloth.
   

Written by Tina A Stoffel

New Studio

It has been way too long since I've updated my blog. Since taking my family on Spring Break, and taxiing my children to swim team, I've fallen terribly behind on my blog which is something I never intended to do.

The big news is that during this time, I have also fully moved into my art studio. I'm so excited and happy about having a wonderful dedicated space for my art. I'm at complete peace in my studio. I get lost in time while listening to my favorite music and  painting.

BEFORE

AFTER

Speaking of painting, currently, I have 3 commissions that I'm working on. With the exception of one piece that needs some final details, once the commissions are finished, I plan to create some new works. Look for more beach scenes, wildlife, and equestrian coming off of my easel soon.

Tina A Stoffel