Hi Lyn,
Your work continues to intrigue. Thanks for sharing.
What are the rules to follow regarding copyrighted images?
Do you use only copyright-free imagery?
Happy March!
Leeann
Thank you for asking. Leann ♥ — that’s an important question.
Yes, for my gallery work and any public-facing exhibitions, I use only copyright-free or rights-cleared imagery. I work primarily with public domain sources such as Flickr Commons, the Library of Congress, museum open-access collections, and other archival databases that explicitly state that images are free of copyright restrictions.
When working with historical or found imagery, here are the general rules I follow:
1. Use Public Domain Images Whenever Possible
Images that are in the public domain (typically published before 1928 in the U.S., though dates advance annually) can be used freely. Many institutions clearly label works as “Public Domain” or “No Known Copyright Restrictions.”
2. Confirm the Rights Statement
Even if an image looks old, I verify the specific rights status. Reputable sources such as the Library of Congress and Flickr Commons clearly indicate usage terms.
3. Respect “Creative Commons” Licenses
Some images are available under Creative Commons licenses. These may require attribution, prohibit commercial use, or restrict derivative works. I carefully follow the specific license terms.
4. Avoid Contemporary Copyrighted Material Without Permission
I do not use modern copyrighted photographs, illustrations, or digital images unless I have explicit written permission from the copyright holder.
5. Transformative Use Matters — But Isn’t a Free Pass
While collage and mixed media often involve transformation, I do not rely on “fair use” as a default defense. For gallery and sales work, I prefer fully cleared or public domain material.
6. Keep Records
I keep documentation of image sources and rights statements for my files, especially for exhibited or published work.
Using archival and public domain imagery allows me to work ethically while also honoring historical sources and visual culture.
Hi Lyn,
Your work continues to intrigue. Thanks for sharing.
What are the rules to follow regarding copyrighted images?
Do you use only copyright-free imagery?
Happy March!
Leeann
Thank you for asking. Leann ♥ — that’s an important question.
Yes, for my gallery work and any public-facing exhibitions, I use only copyright-free or rights-cleared imagery. I work primarily with public domain sources such as Flickr Commons, the Library of Congress, museum open-access collections, and other archival databases that explicitly state that images are free of copyright restrictions.
When working with historical or found imagery, here are the general rules I follow:
1. Use Public Domain Images Whenever Possible
Images that are in the public domain (typically published before 1928 in the U.S., though dates advance annually) can be used freely. Many institutions clearly label works as “Public Domain” or “No Known Copyright Restrictions.”
2. Confirm the Rights Statement
Even if an image looks old, I verify the specific rights status. Reputable sources such as the Library of Congress and Flickr Commons clearly indicate usage terms.
3. Respect “Creative Commons” Licenses
Some images are available under Creative Commons licenses. These may require attribution, prohibit commercial use, or restrict derivative works. I carefully follow the specific license terms.
4. Avoid Contemporary Copyrighted Material Without Permission
I do not use modern copyrighted photographs, illustrations, or digital images unless I have explicit written permission from the copyright holder.
5. Transformative Use Matters — But Isn’t a Free Pass
While collage and mixed media often involve transformation, I do not rely on “fair use” as a default defense. For gallery and sales work, I prefer fully cleared or public domain material.
6. Keep Records
I keep documentation of image sources and rights statements for my files, especially for exhibited or published work.
Using archival and public domain imagery allows me to work ethically while also honoring historical sources and visual culture.