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Can I display original artwork in an exhibit if it contains trademarked logos, colors, fonts? An example would be an original oil painting I have of two NFL players wearing trademarked team uniforms, colors and logos on helmets. The piece will NOT be for sale, rather just on display in an exhibit. Am I infringing on any trademark laws by doing this? If so, what can I do to get to a point of being able to legally put my artwork in a show?

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How is this related to startups? – DJClayworth Nov 14 '12 at 16:19

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IANAL - but the NFL is pretty strict with their interpretation of fair use. Here and here are relevant threads where lawyers discuss this issue.

While you may not be selling the painting, if the exhibit charges admission there is the outside possibility that some "commerce" exists.

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Thank you. I will look further. – Rob Nov 14 '12 at 17:01
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If someone else has intellectual property rights in something...don't use it without the person's consent.

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This does not provide an answer to the question. To critique or request clarification from an author, leave a comment below their post. – Karlson Feb 13 at 19:10
Yes, it most certainly does provide an answer to the question. Don't use the trademarked colors, logos and fonts in the exhibit! – user6492 Feb 14 at 1:02

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