How to Copyright Artwork/ Paintings

According to arts lawyer Jonathan Melber, co-author of "Art/Work," when you create something new, you have the copyright to it in almost all cases, without having to do anything further. However, it will make it easier for you if someone infringes on that copyright if you have it legally registered. You can do this over the Internet. You can register one painting or a body of work all together to save time and money. You will need electronic images of your painting (such as jpegs) to complete the process, and payment by credit card or electronic funds transfer is required.

• 1

  Go to the United States Copyright office website for registering your artwork or paintings, eCO. The website address is listed in the references.

• 2

  Click on the "If you are a new user" link, and enter your personal information on the page that appears to set up an account.

• 3

  Click on the "New Claim" link. Select the type of claim that applies to your work and the information on the work or works you would like to register.

• 4

  Upload images of the work to be registered. If you prefer to send in documents, print out the receipt with the registration number and send that in with your images or other documentation.

• 5

  Select a type of payment and pay for the registration of your copyright to complete the process.