I am going to be honest with you. I am not all that keen in what I have been experiencing by way of social media. I have been an artist for many years…okay like forty, if truth be told, and I thought I would be able to share my art and offer some tips and tricks that experience has taught me without harm. But, I feel this may be a very naïve approach.
In 1986ish (I have blanked out this part of my life) my art representative stole my portfolio and passed it off as her own. Yes, a very painful ordeal and a life changing experience for me. To learn more read my blog, “Smiling Through Broken Glass”
Also please consider reading my book, Sae-Sii Meditation – How to Find your Bliss in 15 Minutes a Day.
Fast-forward to 2018 and I am hit with a social media text informing me that someone has decided to “copy” my work. Really? So, why should I continue sharing my work? And yes, I have watermarked it. Yes, I have repeatedly announced that ALL is copyrighted and have made this as obvious as possible. Yet people continue to ask me if after they purchase my art, they can reproduce the art to resell as their own…NO! ALL of my work is copyrighted and I retain the rights to ALL of it. 100%…ALL, so let’s get that straight! I could not make this clearer.
ALL, let me repeat 100% of my art, supports non-profit organizations who help endangered animals. So in reality, this means I am giving my talent, materials and time to help endangered animals. My reward is in knowing they are being supported—period.
I have given FREE art lessons to communities, schools, organizations and Native American reservations all to help raise awareness to the needs of these animals struggling to survive. And others want to copy this for profit… I find this unacceptable and so do the animals I am helping.
If you have been following my work, you will know that ALL of the art is given to me through meditation. The animals speak to me and I share their messages through my art and then sell it to support their species. If I am to continue to work in this manner I must feel that I am not at risk.
I will be taking some necessary time to calm my heart and meditate on my path. Will I continue to share my work? Will I continue to teach? I do not really know at this time.
Blessings to all who read this and may you find YOUR passion of purpose.
I am so sorry this has (and is) happening to you….such a gifted and giving person. I don’t blame you for taking a time away from social media. There are so many EVIL people in this world today it just boggles the mind! God bless you!
I also am truly sorry for what a few have done to you. You have a beautiful talent, heart and soul to do what you do. It shows in your art, Rest, be at peace and find joy as you take care of yourself.
Truly admire you work and passion for it. Keep up the amazing work where and when ever it may be. You inspired me tnite. I have my passion but need to be more true to myself. Thanks for words
Insecure and laziness contributes to the desire to copy. If people took a little effort,
they would find themselves capable of making their “own great thing”. You can do it
– just keep trying. Stop copying — God made only one of you and you have the ability to create your own unique art. I am sorry that this has been so upsetting for you but I do
understand how you feel when someone steals your ideas and designs. Stay strong. Your work is beautiful….. and special…… and is a contribution to the world. I enjoyed your book.
Lorraine, as a fellow quilter and budding textile artist, I understand totally what you are saying. Unfortunately, there are many ruthless people out there. I too have had my work copied for profit. It is sad that these individuals are not able to use their own sense of creativity to design their own work.
Sorry to hear you’ve had to go through this Lorraine. I think it’s a good idea to take some time out. I hope you get your copyright issues sorted. I wouldn’t just let it go.
Thanks for your sharing your art that I have been able to enjoy. You have a special talent and a good heart.
It truly doesn’t make sense that people (some) continue to do this. It really is stealing and stealing ones heart work is deplorable. I will miss seeing your art but agree it may be time to stop sharing.
As sad as I am to read that I may not hear about your art and talents, I am more proud that you are authentic. We both know the dark forces are attacking you and I will also ask that only the highest good be in your future. I say this often, daily and say it on your behalf at this moment, “I believe in the law of One. When one is harmed, all are harmed. When one is helped, all are helped. Therefore, in the name of all I am, and I am one with all there is, only the highest good for all concerned can and will be done. It is so. So be it.” The animals and I say thank you for all of the good and we urge you to continue in joy, looking the darkness in the face and telling it that it does not have your permission to be there and it must leave as a result.