copyright european-union
simply drawn character protected by copyright?
<p>Let's say someone draws a simply character design for a meme (2min drawing) and then just posts a meme with said character on fb/reddit/etc.</p>
<p>Is this character (or the part of the image where this character is displayed) now protected in any way? Could I for example just use the part of the image where this character is displayed in my own work if my work would generate money?</p>

<h2 id="of-course-its-protected-maw4">Of course it’s protected</h2>
<p>It’s an original artistic work.</p>

<p>The image is protected unless it is <strong>so</strong> simple and uncreative that it does not rise to the low degree of originality needed for copyright protection. A simple stick figure might not, for example.</p>
<p>If the image is protected, neither the whole image not any significant part of it may be used without permission, unless an exception to copyright, such as fair use or fair dealing applies.</p>

<p>Yes.</p>
<p>As long as it is something unique enough to be copyrightable (something a like stick figure, etc. would not be) you, your children, and possible your grand-children can rest happy knowing that it is protected under EU copyright directive for at least the rest of your life, then 70 more years after you die.</p>
