What are an artist’s moral rights?

Moral rights are a type of right that are specific to artists, and are recognized by the law in Washington state. Moral rights are a way to protect an artist’s work and how it is used or displayed after it is created. The first moral right is the right of attribution. This right gives an artist the ability to choose how their work is credited and it ensures their name is attributed to their work. For example, if a painting is sold and then resold, the artist still has the right to be credited for the work and have their name listed as the creator. The right of integrity is also an important moral right. This right ensures that an artist’s work is not treated in a way that is derogatory or demeans the work. If the owner of the work does something to damage the artist’s work or misrepresent it, the artist has the legal right to sue for damages. The right of withdrawal is the last of the moral rights. This right is often referred to as the “droite de retrait,” and is rooted in French law. This right allows an artist to take back their work from public display if they feel it does not display their work in the best way. For example, if an artwork is sold and the owner then alters it without permission, the artist can legally take back the artwork from the owner. In Washington, artists’ moral rights are recognized and protected by the law. These rights are important for artists to ensure that their works are displayed in the best way and credited to them.

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