Homework #8 - "Models of Authorship in New Media"

Authorship is a very unique term which can be confused with ownership. When hearing the word authorship, I think of who create a certain piece or art or work. The author is the mastermind behind the product who basically is responsible for all aspects of that piece. The concept easy to overlook is the additional help or insight an artist or author receives during the artistic process. One example discussed is how artists had apprentices who played a significant role in the production. Michelangelo deserves a lot of the credit for the Sistine Chapel but obviously many other painters contributed to the masterpiece. Musicians who sample beats or rhythms become very successful do not always acknowledge the original artists who created that specific beat. Remixing is very common in other forms such as software, photography, and artwork. Similar techniques are across all different industries and fields, but this is not technically stealing. I believe there is a grey area where individuals need to give credit where it is due, but it is acceptable to obtain ideas from previous artists. Collaboration leads to some of the greatest creations such as the iPhone and the internet. Revolutionary products and concepts are not possible without teamwork and creative minds working together.