I'm an artist and I want to copyright my work using my studio's name...can I do that?

Question

I'm just starting out and I don't have the studio registered as "doing business as" yet. Can I sign my work with the studio's name and have it be legally valid?

The studio is mine, as well.

Answer 1

yes, but you have to provide the copyright office with your true name which they will keep anonymous if you so desire. the duration of copyright is based on your lifespan, not the business. this is the same situation that authors have with "pen names". i personally recommend against this practice, especially if you sell or lose your business, it will confuse the issue of who holds the copyrights and may lead to litigation.

Answer 2

You can always register your artworks to the Australian Copyright Council:
www.copyright.org.au/

If you are in America:
U.S. Copyright Office
I seem to be having problem for posting two web links, so I might have to ask you to search it on google by yourself, sorry about that one.

It can be registered under your name (personal) and it will give you a legal stand when someone tries to invade your copyright.

Or any other local copyright registeration office

Well... that's if you are in Australia. But remember, copyright is internationally applied. It may cost a little amout of fees, but it will worth it.

Always consult the copyright office for more info.

Answer 3

Don't do it.

The work is already copyrighted in your name the second you do it, but if you want to register the copyright, I'd do it in your own name.

If by some chance the studio takes off and becomes a business, partners/employees and all, then if it gets sold the copyright gets sold with it. All depends on whether you want to take that risk.

Answer 4

if its your company thats fine , if its not i wudnt do it as they would legally own it not you