First, we need to talk about copyright. Lawyers are happy to demand that you pay them your hard-earned money to defend you when you copy someone’s art. Even if you have altered it. Request permission in writing with all the options spelled out. The best way to copy someone’s art is with permission and always giving credit in such a way that the original artist makes money by selling prints to 300 of your best friends. Don’t assume the artist won’t ever see your quilt. This internet world with no privacy has easy access to hungry lawyers.
With that in mind, go search online and at the local Cosplay shows. Narrow your list down to just a few artists with the style you like. Open a conversation. Get a feel for the artist’s willingness to be part of your quilt design adventure. Plan ahead. Many of the good artists have other commitments.
Ask for an interview. Please post it on your blog.
In this public world, it is fairly easy to find the contact information for the artists and you can even translate your request into their own language. There are many places online that will help you draft a contract or agreement. Get a signed permission form stating that you will make a quilt based on their original work and it may appear on the internet, in a quilt show, or be published. Promise that you will put their name as the artist on the internet, quilt label, and in a book, pattern, or newspaper article as needed. If you wish to sell copies of their original art, promise to order them directly from the artist. Pay their fee and get a receipt.
