(Re)Produce? Appropriation and Plagiarism in Art

Appropriate (verb): to take for one’s own or exclusive use Plagiarize (noun): to take (ideas, writings, etc.) from (another) and pass them off as one’s own According to Webster’s New World College Dictionary (1997):

SO HOW ARE THESE DIFFERENT?

When you incorporate outside elements into your own work: Make sure it is an act of synthesis, combining things to create something new Give credit! In the title, by using something that is universal (Mona Lisa, Campbell’s soup cans) or by some other means Alter the original image substantially Ask yourself, “Is the viewer in on the joke or is the viewer the target of the joke?”

Appropriation: Mona Lisa. Andy Warhol Untitled (When I Hear the Word Culture I Take Out My Checkbook). Barbara Kruger. 1985

Plagiarism is passing off another's imagery as your own: It is blind copying with no significant alteration or transformation There is no credit given to the original artist if elements are recreated This includes works created from another artist’s photograph, drawing, painting, etc.

From the AP Studio Art FAQ page May students work from photographs or other published images? While the use of appropriated images is common in the professional art world today, many colleges and art schools continue to stress strongly the value of working from direct observation. In aspiring to college-level work, students who make use of borrowed images should demonstrate a creativity and sophistication of approach that transcends mere copying. This policy is clearly stated on the AP Studio Art poster: If you submit work that makes use of photographs, published images, and/or other artists' works, you must show development beyond duplication. This may be demonstrated through manipulation of formal qualities, design, and/or concept of the original work. It is unethical, constitutes plagiarism, and often violates copyright law to simply copy an image (even in another medium) that was made by someone else. In evaluating portfolios, the faculty consultants look for original thinking; please encourage your students to create artworks from their own knowledge, experiences, and interests. Copying work in any medium without significant and substantial manipulation is an infringement on the original artist's rights and can constitute plagiarism. You and your students are strongly encouraged to become knowledgeable about copyright laws. The growth in the use of computer software, scanners, xerography, and photography makes this issue of particular concern. Universities, colleges, and professional schools of art have rigorous policies regarding plagiarism. The AP Studio Art program endorses these policies.

PLAGIARISM Rashidi Barrett (presented as own original work 2013) Rubens LP (original illustration)

PLAGIARISM Photo on left: AP Photographer Mannie Garcia; poster on right: Shepard Fairey Fairey was sentenced to two years probation, $25,000 fine for criminal contempt stemming from his legal battle with AP. David Ng, Los Angeles Times 9/8/12

On your handout write a working definition for both appropriation and plagiarism in your own words.

You be the Judge. On the handout determine if Jeff Koons’ sculpture is plagiarism or appropriation. Be sure to give clear reasons for your decision and be prepared to discuss/defend.

Puppies. Art Rogers Photograph. 4 5 / 8 ” x 5 ¾” String of Puppies. Jeff Koons Polychrome on wood; 62“ x 37”