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DEEP CATACOMBS - Ah, Neopets. Full of beautiful artwork, and lots of opportunity
for fan art. It's enough to keep an artist busy for months. Unfortunately, some
members of the Neopian community don't have a clear idea of where creativity
ends, and art thievery begins. Others seem more than a bit eager to grab a piece
of custom artwork of very own. These issues and more can cause trouble...but
never fear, I'm here to help.
I Saw This Great Graphic-But Why Can't I Use It?
A common misconception is that art found on display in user lookups, pet lookups,
and pet web pages is free to use wherever you'd like. This is not true in any
case, however. Artists all over Neopets work hard at what they do, and many
would not be pleased to find it on someone else's page! Always ask the creator
of a work of art if you may borrow it. If they agree, make sure to credit them
on the same page that you use it, and also follow any other guidelines that
they may give you. If the answer is no, thank them anyhow, and perhaps set about
creating your own work. Not a natural artist? Try out the step-by-step art guides
that Neopets provides. Remember, if you didn't make it yourself , and you don't
have permission to use (or submit) it, it's stealing!
It's My Art-I Took Something Old and Changed It!
Editing artwork that doesn't belong to you, and then calling it your own is
also wrong-and perhaps worse than just taking it to begin with. Yes, even the
graphics made by the Neopets Team aren't up for grabs-though you are more than
welcome to try drawing a pet yourself and then altering it to your liking.
You're an Artist-Draw My Neopet!
So you've heard of people who draw custom images of pets on request. It's
true that there are a number of people on Neopets who offer these services.
However, it's very important to be polite, patient, and understanding when making
an image request with anyone, for the following reasons:
1. You never know how many people are waiting ahead of you.
2. Not everyone plays Neopets daily--and they may not reply immediately.
3. Emergencies happen--so if you're turned down, or if you receive no
reply after a while, don't press.
Some artists choose to only draw things for their friends--and others don't
take requests at all. The most important thing to remember is, if you do find
a willing person, don't rush them.
Hopefully I've helped clear up a few issues with this article. Neomail
me if you have any questions or comments. | 
