Do you know that Superhero?

Hey there, comic book fans!  Ever wondered why my merch features some awesome, yet unfamiliar superheroes? It's all thanks to the concept of the public domain.  Think of it as a giant online library of creative ideas –  free for anyone to use and build upon!

Copyright law protects original works like stories, characters, and designs for a set time. Once that time expires, the creation enters the public domain.  This means anyone can use those ideas to create new comics, movies, or, in my case, super cool merchandise!

Here's why so many superheroes from the 1940s-1960s are fair game for artistic reimagining:

• Copyright laws back then weren't as strong as they are today. Creators might forget to renew copyrights, or the laws themselves were different.
• So, after a while, these characters became public property, free for anyone to use.

It's like finding a hidden treasure chest full of incredible costumes and powers! I get to take these classic heroes, some with unique quirks, and give them a modern makeover for a whole new audience. It's a fun way to pay homage to the creativity of the past while creating something fresh and exciting.

Did you know? Even some well-known characters can be in the public domain due to copyright expiration or legal loopholes.  It's important to note that I always double-check the copyright status before featuring a character.  My goal is to celebrate this rich world of comics,  not to infringe on anyone's intellectual property.

Disclaimer:  If you believe I am using a character that infringes on your copyright, please don't hesitate to contact me directly. I'm always happy to work with rights holders to ensure proper attribution.

Let's be honest, some of these public domain heroes have the most epic names and backstories ever.  Black Terror? Plastic Man?  These are pure gold!

So, the next time you see my artwork featuring a hero you might not recognize, remember they're part of a vast universe of characters waiting to be rediscovered. It's a chance to celebrate comic book history and create something totally new at the same time!

The Lifecycle of Copyright

What is Public Domain?