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Look, But Don't Touch: The Consequences of Removing, Modifying or Destructing Visual Art in Buildings

Unknowing building owners can incur substantial liability when incorporating certain artistic works within their buildings. The Visual Artists Rights Act of 1990 (VARA), 17 U.S.C. 106A, limits the ability of a building owner to alter, move, or remove a "work of visual art." This article will provide an overview of this statute and its interpretation and application by various courts.

6 minute read August 01, 2003 at 05:36 PM
By
Joseph M. Beck And Pamela C. Mallari
Look, But Don't Touch: The Consequences of Removing, Modifying or Destructing Visual Art in Buildings

Unknowing building owners can incur substantial liability when incorporating certain artistic works within their buildings. The Visual Artists Rights Act of 1990 (VARA), 17 U.S.C. 106A, limits the ability of a building owner to alter, move, or remove a “work of visual art.”

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