COPYRIGHT AND DESIGN LICENSES

The patterns created by Folkstar are very popular. Below we answer the most common questions concerning copyright, Folkstar design and folk art.

1. ARE THE DESIGNS, PRODUCTS AND PICTURES PRESENTED ON THIS WEBSITE PROTECTED BY COPYRIGHT?

Yes

All works in the form of graphics on products and packaging, as well as their photographs presented on our website, are subject to legal protection under the Act of February 4, 1994 on copyright and related rights. This applies to intellectual property, which is the work of our designers, photographers, folk artists, and folk craft workshops cooperating with us. We are the only controller and owner of the proprietary copyrights of our designs, which have been created since 2009.

2. ARE THE WORKS OF FOLK ARTISTS PROTECTED BY LAW?

Yes

Products that are the work of folk artists are also subject to copyright. The purchase of a cutout, embroidery or sculpture does not authorize anyone to reproduce such work, and the distribution or use for commercial purposes entitles the author to claim copyright protection. As is the case with "high art", the legal protection covers 70 years from the creation of the work, and the rights of the author's heirs must also be taken into account.

3. ARE FOLK PATTERNS A NATIONAL HERITAGE?

There is no denying this.

Our cultural heritage is an undeniable value; it shapes our national identity, and relates to both material and spiritual culture. Folk art, as the entire artistic activity of the local (mostly rural) community, is also an important element of national heritage.

Polish folk art, which is still a living phenomenon in many regions, can be an extraordinary source of inspiration for contemporary artists who represent many fields of art. However, it should be remembered that each work has its own author, who has exactly the same rights as creators and artists from other branches.

Therefore, let's enjoy original handicraft products, but also modern designs that are made on the basis of native folklore.

4. CAN I USE PICTURES AND DESIGNS FROM THE FOLKSTAR WEBSITE?

No

The use of our photos and designs posted on the Internet, or the copying of graphics from purchased products for commercial purposes is prohibited and is a violation of the law.

5. CAN I SHARE YOUR PHOTOS ON THE INTERNET?

Yes

It makes us happy and satisfied when you like Folkstar products. Our photos presented on the Internet can be shared at will, but only if you provide the information "Photo by Folkstar" and a link to the photo source or our homepage folkstar.pl

Use them for social and private purposes, or for illustrating articles and blogs, but not for commercial use.

6. HOW TO DESIGN YOUR OWN PATTERN INSPIRED BY FOLK ART SO THAT IT DOESN'T VIOLATE COPYRIGHT?

It is not that difficult.

To begin, a visit to a regional museum will be useful, but participation in workshops conducted by folk artists would be better. Once you choose the field of creativity, it will be necessary to gather materials and tools. If, for example, you choose a cutout, it is enough to have scissors, coloured paper and glue. A little patience and a bit of talent will also be useful. It is important not to trace or copy existing works. The key to success is always independent creativity!

7. WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN INSPIRATION AND PLAGIARISM?

Every creator intuitively knows the difference. Inspiration by another author is the result of creative activity that arose under the influence of the psychological and emotional reception of the original work, and which acts as a stimulus to the implementation of one's own idea. Plagiarism (Latin: plagiarism means theft) is copying someone else's work, and even worse, ascribing its authorship. Interesting inspiration can bring fame and popularity, and plagiarism, according to Art. 115 of the Act of February 4, 1994 on copyright and related rights (Journal of Laws of 2019, item 1231) is subjected to a fine, restriction of liberty, or imprisonment for up to 3 years.

8. ARE YOU GIVING LICENSES FOR PATTERNS?

It is possible to obtain a license for our designs, but we never grant it to people and institutions that have violated our property and personal copyrights. Each case is priced individually, especially with regards to the time and fields of use.

SAMPLE PRICE LIST FOR THE ŁOWICZ PATTERN

In the case of the Łowicz pattern: one large flower - PLN 3,000; one leaf - PLN 2,000; one small flower - PLN 500.

If you need a pattern that consists of, e.g. 6 large flowers (A), 3 leaves (B), and 6 small flowers (C), then the annual use of this pattern will cost:

5x3000 + 3x2000 + 6x500 = PLN 24,000 net / year