Contract toolkits for artist
1. Key Clauses to Always Check
Scope of Work / Services – What exactly are you agreeing to do?
Payment Terms – How much, when, and how you get paid
Intellectual Property Rights – Who owns the work? Are you licensing or assigning it?
Exclusivity – Are you restricted from working with others?
Duration (Term) – How long does the agreement last?
Territory – Where the agreement applies geographically
Termination – How you can exit the contract
Credits – How your name will appear on the work
Royalties / Revenue Sharing – If applicable, how income is split
Moral Rights – Protection of your authorship and integrity
2. Red Flags to Watch Out For
“In perpetuity” ownership transfers
Vague payment terms
No termination clause
Full rights assignment without fair compensation
One-sided obligations
3. Pre-Signing Checklist
A quick, actionable checklist:
Do I understand every clause?
Have I confirmed payment details?
Who owns the final work?
Can I exit if things go wrong?
Have I sought legal advice if needed?
