The artist release form (also known as artwork release form or art release form) is a legal document signed to protect copyrights. It could be a work of any type of art: music, visual arts, literature, graphic arts, performing arts, and decorative arts.
Suppose a business entity, large enough to compensate for any artwork, gets interested in something you have created as an artist. In that case, they have to use the release of liability form to obtain legal proof that they can display your work for private or commercial purposes.
A person who has created a work of art (painting, film, song, dance) has a right to claim monetary compensation for their creation when they consent to a business’s use of the work for promotion or production. In this case, the form will indicate that the buyer has copyrights and that an artist has received some compensation for the piece.
If there is no artist release form, an artist can litigate a case and define the sum of money that a person who has used the piece illegally must pay as compensation. For example, if your soundtrack has been used in a film without your permission, you are encouraged to defend your rights and make a legal claim against the filmmaker for violating copyrights.
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There are many situations when an artist release form may help you protect your rights. The form is mostly used when famous labels and big companies want to use intellectual property legally. The list includes but is not limited to the following occasions:
There are many other situations in which an artist release form comes into play. It is always a great idea to obtain an artist’s permission if they are paid for a creative piece. It can help a company avoid legal cases in court and other confusing moments. If you obtain the right to use another person’s intellectual property entirely for free, it is still recommended to complete the form to guarantee your copyrights’ protection. It is also worth mentioning that although after selling or giving away an artwork, the owner lets the buyer use it for established purposes, the creator still has a right to include it in their portfolio or use it for the promotion of their talent.
| Document Name | Artist Release Form |
| Other Names | Artwork Release, Graphic Design Release |
| Avg. Time to Fill Out | 5 minutes |
| # of Fillable Fields | 8 |
| Available Formats | Adobe PDF |
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You are welcome to use our form-building software to obtain the needed file. After you have completed the paper, print it, and keep the original document in a safe place.
Introduce the Party Receiving the Permission
On the first blank line, insert the company’s full name or individual who buys the piece and obtains the copyrights.
Enter the Buyer’s (or Representative’s) Name
On the next line, insert the buyer’s name or the person who has been assigned to make decisions regarding the approval of the artist’s use of the creation.
Input the Acquirer’s Name Again
In the final blank line, write the name of the person obtaining the permission. By doing this, you claim that you hold this person harmless.
Provide Personal and Artwork Details
After the paragraphs, write your artwork’s title. Then, add your details, including your legal name, residential and email addresses, and a phone number. Do not forget to sign the paper and date.
