NYC Fine Artists &
Photography Lawyer

Expand Law PLLC provides high-level representation of Brooklyn and NYC fine artists and photographers through the processes of development, fabrication, exhibition and sales.

With fine and visual artists, issues often come up that legal counsel can help with, potentially changing the course of the artist’s legal relation to the work and the way it is shown to the world.  Some common issues the firm can advise on include:

• Drafting, reviewing, and effectively negotiating contracts dealing with ownership, rights, creative control, and compensation with galleries, public art exhibits, collections, and venues;

• Negotiating purchase and sale agreements, gallery agreements, and other commercial transactions;

• Handling artist-dealer relations;

• Reviewing contracts related to the commission of a work;

• Advising on business entities, associated agreements, and helping artists through the process of incorporation;

• Helping artists pursue goals of setting up nonprofit arts organizations;

• Advising on international exhibitions, showings, loans, and other relationships with galleries abroad;

• Representing artists in a range of copyright issues and licensing agreements, including as relates to artist branding;

• Estate planning and planning for future generations and legacy planning

Representing Brooklyn and NYC Photographers and Videographers 

Lindsey works with photographers and videographers on the issues related to fine artists.  Specifically when dealing with photography and videography, the major issues that often come up are related to copyright and intellectual property, specifically regarding unauthorized use of published works.

Lindsey represents NYC-based and global photographers and videographers in the areas of copyright enforcement, digitization of archives, content licensing, book publication, and negotiating deals and sponsorship agreements.  Sound legal representation can change the way you are compensated for your work to enable you to continue going out into the field and capturing valuable, meaningful images.  Specifically in the digital age, working with a local, NYC-based attorney for photographers and videographers can help shield you from theft and monetize your work and business.

FAQ: 

How can I ensure my painting is used properly and earning income?

There are multiple aspects to consider when thinking about how your painting or other material is used.

You might speak with an attorney to consider copyrighting or otherwise obtaining the rights to your work.  While you automatically own the rights to any piece you create, registering your work with the U.S. Copyright Office affords you additional protections.  This allows you to have a voice when you work out merchandising deals as well as to have recourse if your work is used in a manner that goes against your values or visions for the piece. 

You might also be considering publishing your work in a book or other volume.  At Expand Law, we work with artists to ensure that you earn royalties on your work at favorable rates, and that you retain control over how it gets presented editorially.

What should I look for in a gallery agreement?

Congratulations on being offered a gallery agreement.  This is likely a major milestone in your career.  You deserve to be protected at this stage.

A good gallery agreement touches upon the way your work is displayed in addition to the length of the show.  There should also be provisions for how your work gets sold, who gets how much of a cut related to the sale, and how you can recoup on losses if a disaster or emergency happens.

Among other provisions, one key aspect to consider is what the contract says if the gallery where the art is being displayed faces financial issues.  It is important to have an attorney review your contract and write or negotiate a provision that prohibits your work from being used as collateral for a gallery’s debts.

Lindsey Rubinstein can work with you to ensure that this milestone in your career does not come with unforeseen financial and creative consequences.

Trustworthy Brooklyn Arts Lawyer

New York City is one of the great arts cities in the world.  Brooklyn and NYC fine artists and photographers deserve trustworthy counsel who will listen to their specific goals and execute work in tandem with those goals so they can continue making the work that drives them.

At Expand Law, we do not see your art as a means to insulate private wealth, turning your vision into an object to collateralize a loan.  We work with artists to help bring their vision to life in a way that ensures that their creation truly benefits them and their continued ability to thrive as an artist in NYC.

Lindsey’s experience writing, editing, and negotiating contracts allows you to rest assured that you will be included in every step of the process and will have an end product in line with your key priorities.

Reach out via the contact form to schedule a free consultation regarding your legal needs today.