The idea of originality in art is a complex and grey area. Because we are so heavily influenced by the visual world, it is almost impossible to create something that is total unique and new. Technology has increased the complexity of this issue by expanding our access to artworks and artists. Adding to the confusion is the idea of appropriation where an artist uses an existing image or item in whole or in a modified way as part of their artwork. Some of these images and products fall under copyright/trademark laws and have lead to lawsuits. Even the rulings in these legal cases can be ambiguous and don't help the artist navigate this complex issue.
As a new artist, you should try to be as original as possible. Even some concepts are the intellectual property of the artist. It is not enough to make a few changes to an existing art design or photo without being guilty of copying the artist.
Go to Schoology and answer the following questions by clicking on the Submit Assignment button, then the Create link under the Appropriation Video Response.
Describe what appropriation is in your own words
Do you think that artworks like the urinal hung on the wall by artist Marcel Duchamp is truly art? Explain why.