On 9 November 2012 15:59, Andrew Gray andrew.gray@dunelm.org.uk wrote: ...
it was published by the 1930s, you're safe. If it wasn't published but has been exhibited ("made available to the public"), copyright remains until the end of 2039, or 70 years after first exhibition if that's longer. If it's never been made available to the public - which is likely if they have a photo - then copyright remains until the end of 2039.
I am aware that some books on copyright put the exhibition scenario forward, and indeed I have been subject myself to claims by archives attempting to exercise this right (which I basically ignored). However I do not believe there is any background of real cases that support this theoretical interpretation. I could easily be wrong, if you happen to have some cases that had their day in court to clarify and confirm interpretations, I would appreciate the references.
Special archive exhibitions with important material, often have other estates involved who are interested in protecting their rights of reproduction. Again, that's a different scenario and more about how exhibitions protect themselves.
PS Classic; I'm short of time and have big things to attend to, and so find myself in the Wikimedian way, spending my time talking copyright.
Cheers, Fae
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