Can artwork that you see on the internet be subjected to copyright laws?

Artwork available on the internet is indeed subject to copyright laws. Copyright protections apply to original works of authorship, which includes visual art, music, literature, and more. When an artist creates a piece of artwork, they automatically retain the copyright to that work, regardless of where it is displayed or shared.

Even if the artwork is accessible online, it does not imply that it is free to use or reproduce without permission from the copyright holder. Copyright laws exist to protect the rights of creators, ensuring they have control over how their work is used and allowing them to benefit financially from their creations. Therefore, individuals or organizations wishing to use online artwork must either seek permission from the copyright holder or verify that the work falls under exceptions like fair use or is licensed under terms that allow for such use, such as Creative Commons licenses.

Understanding copyright helps in promoting respect for creative works and encourages artists to continue producing original content, knowing their rights are protected. This principle applies universally, whether the artwork is shared on personal websites, social media platforms, or other digital mediums.