Artist Ethics, Out to Play Daily Everglades Painting by JoAnn Sanborn

The top prize winner at the American Watercolor Society this year seems to have stolen her images from a photographer, done most of the work on the computer, and we're still not sure if she ever painted on the painting at all! The whole affair is under investigation. There's been a lot of discussion and comment on the web, and most artists are outraged. If you're a professional, it pays to have at least a basic understanding of what's not only ethical, but legal as well. Stealing other peoples images is neither legal or ethical.

We all have a code of ethics, but few of us have them in writing. Art Biz Coach Alyson Stanfield has made a start by writing down her set of business ethics, and you can see hers by clicking here. All this thinking and reading about ethics has prompted me to make a start at defining mine, too. Here goes.

My work is my own, unique and original as interpreted by me from either life, or a photo taken by me or at my request by my husband who's a much better photographer.

I use quality, archival materials. I buy the best materials for the job and use them in ways to guarantee my work.

I try to help other artists. Through teaching, organizing artist events, and always being willing to share.

I never mislead a client to make a sale. The best fit for the client is always best for me. This leads to trust, and repeat sales.

I work hard to be the best I can be. I continue to learn through classes and self study.

I work to strengthen the arts community on Marco Island. I believe the arts help build community, so have been president of the Marco Island Foundation for the Arts, and are working with other community organizations like the Marco Island Center for the Arts and the Marco Island Chamber of Commerce to help create art events to benefit our community.

There. It's a start. I"m sure there's a few more in here somewhere. Have you thought about your personal or business ethics lately?

Out to Play
5" x 7" SOLD