Designs created by Folkstar are very popular. Below we answer the most frequently asked questions about copyright, Folkstar design and folk art.

1. ARE THE DESIGNS, PRODUCTS AND PHOTOS PRESENTED ON THIS SITE PROTECTED BY COPYRIGHT?

Yes

All works in the form of graphics on products and packaging, as well as photographs presenting them posted on our website, are covered by legal protection under the Act of February 4, 1994 on copyright and related rights. This applies to both intellectual property resulting from the work of our designers and photographers, as well as folk artists and folk crafts workshops cooperating with us. We are the sole holder and owner of the copyrights to our designs, which have been created since 2009.

2. ARE THE WORKS OF FOLK ARTISTS PROTECTED BY LAW?

Yes

Songs that are the works of folk artists are also covered by copyright. The purchase of a cutout, embroidery or sculpture does not entitle anyone to reproduce such a work, and dissemination or use for commercial purposes entitles the author to claim copyright protection. As in the case of "high art", legal protection covers 70 years from the creation of the work, and the rights of the heirs of the author of the work must also be taken into account.

3. ARE FOLK PATTERNS NATIONAL HERITAGE?

There's no denying it.

Our cultural heritage is of undeniable value; shapes our national identity, it refers to both material and spiritual culture. Folk art as the overall artistic activity of the local (usually rural) community is also an important element of national heritage. Polish folk art, which is still a living phenomenon in many regions, can be an extraordinary source of inspiration for contemporary artists representing many fields of art. However, it should be remembered that each work has its own author, who has exactly the same rights as creators and artists from other industries.

So let's enjoy original handicrafts, but also contemporary design based on local folklore.

4. CAN I USE PHOTOS AND DESIGNS FROM THE FOLKSTAR WEBSITE?

No

Using photos and our designs posted on the Internet or copying graphics from purchased products for commercial purposes is prohibited and constitutes a violation of the law.

5. CAN I SHARE YOUR PHOTOS ON THE INTERNET?

Yes

It gives us joy and satisfaction when you like Folkstar products. You can share our photos presented on the Internet as much as you want, provided that you provide the information Photo. Folkstar and a link to the source of the photo or our home page folkstar.pl

Use them for social and private purposes, to illustrate articles, blogs, but it cannot be used commercially.

6. HOW TO DESIGN YOUR OWN PATTERN INSPIRED BY FOLK ART SO THAT IT DOESN'T INFRINGE COPYRIGHTS?

It's not that difficult.

To start with, a visit to a regional museum and, preferably, participation in workshops conducted by folk artists will be useful. Once you have chosen a field of creativity, you will need to gather materials and tools. If you choose, for example, cut-outs, all you need are scissors, colored paper and glue. You'll also need some patience and a bit of talent. Just don't copy or copy from existing works. The key to success is always independent creativity!

7. WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN INSPIRATION AND PLAGIARISM?

Every creator intuitively senses the difference. Inspiration from the work of another author is the result of creative activity resulting from the psychological and emotional reception of the original work, which acts as an incentive to implement one's own idea. Plagiarism (Latin: plagium, theft) is copying someone else's work, and even worse, claiming its authorship. An interesting inspiration may bring fame and popularity, while plagiarism, in accordance with Art. 115 of the Act of February 4, 1994 on copyright and related rights (Journal of Laws of 2019, item 1231) is subject to a fine, restriction of liberty or imprisonment for up to 3 years.

8. DO YOU LICENSE DESIGNS?

It is possible to obtain a license for our designs, but we never grant it to persons and institutions that have violated our proprietary and personal copyrights. Each case is valued individually, also in terms of time of use and fields of use.

9. WHAT HAPPENS IF THE USE OF FOLKSTAR DESIGNS IS DISCLOSED WITHOUT OUR KNOWLEDGE AND CONSENT?

Being aware that someone is illegally taking our property, we react quickly, striving to explain the circumstances and the scale of the appropriation. Each documented case is directed to the law firm cooperating with us. Unfortunately, many such cases end up in court.

10. HOW CAN YOU KNOW OUR PRODUCTS?

• Original Folkstar products always have the company logo - on the product, label or box.
  Our design is inspired by, among others: Polish folk art clearly differs from clumsy fakes - you will look at the colors, quality of the pattern, shapes of flowers and other elements.
  Ask the seller if you are buying original Folkstar products.