Art theft. I need help guys.

fflightningxiii:

I never believed the day would happen when someone would steal my fan art and profit from it. At first I tried laughing it off because I doubt the person was making anything from a measly sketch but it is bothering me now. It is also partly my ignorance for not watermarking the image properly because I never assumed it would happen to me…

Around the beginning of the year I posted this drawing up »here«


Before that I uploaded the individual files on my tumblr sketch blog here.

This morning I was informed that someone had possibly taken the image from tumblr and did this:



Much to say I was surprised because I never gave anyone permission to use my sketches for merchandise. They just aren’t worth it. It’s almost petty.

Side note: I am tolerable to an extent with people using my drawings for personal use such as graphics and such (even if there’s no credit, although credit would be very much appreciated) but to make profit from it is not only offending me, the art community but also Eiichiro Oda, the man who created the character from the start.

The image was found on tumblr and I have already sent a message asking where the poster has found the image. I am still awaiting for answers. I doubt the poster was the person who created the hoodie.

Anyway, I was hoping you guys can spread the word so I can some how track this person down and ask them to stop this immediately. Some clue within the image that might help? I am no Sherlock Holmes and I also do not know the legal issues that will ensue but I will greatly appreciate any help I can get. Also, if you guys do manage to somehow find the source, please do not harass the person. The last thing I want is to send flames and forks at their front door. We will be civil about this.

If you guys find any information please either contact me through deviantart or my email: savu_1993@hotmail(dot)com
I am very grateful for any help.

It deeply saddens me now that this person has gone and done this because the consequences are severe for art thievery. I’m still kinda shocked because I thought I was the last person for this to happen to. The art itself is not even on par with pivix standards. This is a lesson to learn, protect your art no matter how bad you think you suck.

Thank you for taking your time to read this :)