Is it Illegal to Sell Drawings of Characters?
Selling fan art within the United States is not strictly illegal as it is not a criminal offense. However, the copyright law is there to protect artists and they can exercise their rights by suing anybody who infringes on their work.
What is Copyright Law?
Copyright law is a set of laws that protect the rights of authors and creators of original works. It grants the creator exclusive rights to their work, including the right to reproduce, distribute, display, and create derivative works.
Does Copyright Law Apply to Drawings of Characters?
Yes, copyright law applies to drawings of characters. If a character is based on an existing character or is a derivative of an existing character, then the creator of the drawing will need to obtain permission from the original creator in order to sell the drawing. If the character is an original creation, then the creator of the drawing will own the copyright and will be able to sell the drawing without permission.
What Happens if I Sell Drawings of Characters Without Permission?
If you sell drawings of characters without permission, then you could be sued for copyright infringement. The original creator could seek damages, including lost profits, legal fees, and court costs.
Are There Any Exceptions to Copyright Law?
Yes, there are some exceptions to copyright law. For example, if the character is in the public domain or is a parody, then the creator of the drawing may be able to sell the drawing without permission.
Conclusion
Selling drawings of characters is not strictly illegal, but it is important to be aware of copyright law and to obtain permission from the original creator if necessary. If you do not obtain permission, then you could be sued for copyright infringement. There are some exceptions to copyright law, so it is important to research the character before selling any drawings.
