Question on legality etc. sale of artwork

[thegrump]

Back in the early 70's, I hand copied artwork from advertisements in a newspaper. These were done on top quality paper in ink, using nib and brush. I am thinking of selling some. Can I advertise these as original artwork, original artwork ( copied from etc ). or what ????

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[Lance B]

Even though you copied them, the work is your work and I would have thought that was ok to sell as "original art work". I could be wrong, though. Best to get legal advice.

Nice work, by the way.

[thegrump]

Thanks Lance

[ameerat42]

Such an artistic flair for flares, TG:p:p

[Claire M]

Hi Grump :) If you drew these from a photograph or another drawn print and there are subtle differences from the originals, then because these lovely ink drawings are your own interpretation of the original artworks, I can't see a problem with you selling them at all. I would sign these (even if it's a tiny signature) BTW. A lot of artists sell art that they have sketched from photos, whether they are famous landmarks or famous people (photographed by someone else) and publically display them in markets and galleries.
As Lance has said, if you're still not sure or comfortable about where you stand legally, then ask some advice, preferably from people or companies that sell art.

[Mark L]

Back in the early 70's, I hand copied artwork from advertisements in a newspaper.

If your drawings are as the original image appeared then the original image copyright trumps your drawings.
If, as I suspect, your drawings are an interpretation and look distinctly different to the original image then things may be okay.
More copyright research required.

[ameerat42]

Alas! Seems it's all a matter of where you draw the line, TG:(

[thegrump]

Actually, I drew the line in taxpayers time, when I worked for the MMBW......

[arthurking83]

Actually, I drew the line in taxpayers time, when I worked for the MMBW......

Aha!
I knew some of them must've been doing some work .. some where!

.. just never the work they were getting paid for! :p