Custom chips- art copyright issues?

[JayCo]

Does anyone have any idea what the copyright problems would be with using art/characters from a TV cartoon?

Examples would ChipCo create a custom chip set based on .GIF files from Disney movies? Bugs Bunny? The Simpsons?

Thanks

[ohgeetee]

disney doesnt even like people making fansites based on their movies and cartoons, so i highly doubt chipco would do this.

the main problem with art is trademark law requires companies to legally pursue violations of their trademark, otherwise they lose the mark. so even while it makes them look like assholes when they shitcan some toddler's website based on the little mermaid, if they dont, due to trademark laws, they risk their trademark being taken from them.

I think the trademark laws and branding are what fuel the copyright issues by proxy. Also, even if your usage of the characters fell under fair use, chipco wouldnt be willing to risk any negative repercussions based around using copyrighted or trademarked works.

[slamdunkpro]

As a professional graphic artist I can tell you this: Use a Disney or WB Character and if they find out they will sue

In order to use them legaly, your would have to obtain a period usage license from the owner of the copyright. Disney does not license out their trademarks.

The truth is it would be cheaper to go buy a set of chips from a casino at face value then try to get a license for any of the shows you mentioned.

[JayCo]

Thanks for the replies- sounds like Disney/WB is out. I did email ChipCo about the possiblity/process of creating chips based on cartoon characters, but haven't heard back yet.

Sounds like I would actually need to receive written, authorized permission from Fox for chips with art even similar to characters from The Simpsons / Futarama / etc. If I hear differently from ChipCo, I'll post their reply.

Would this permission/licensing requirement even apply to likenesses of these characters I created or drew myself (i.e., if I did not use pre-existing scans/.GIF/.JPG images off the web, but created my own renditions)?

[MrGo]

I e-mailed the artist who created Pink Floyd's Dark Side of the Moon album cover. I received permission, but now I need written permission.

Pain in the a$$.

[JayCo]

[ QUOTE ]
I e-mailed the artist who created Pink Floyd's Dark Side of the Moon album cover. I received permission, but now I need written permission.

Pain in the a$$.

[/ QUOTE ]

That bites, but I checked out your thread on these chips, and they would be seriously cool and worth the a$$pain, IMO mr go's possible floyd chips

Given your success, maybe it's worth taking a flier and dropping Rupert Murdoch and Matt Groenig a line...

[BarronVangorToth]

My business heavily involves licensing and ANY major brand that you would care to utilize WILL come after you if they find out, so don't bother -- if the chip manufacturers are too stupid to not tell you in advance, they'll be liable as well.

In short: don't do it.


Barron Vangor Toth
www.BarronVangorToth.com