Comments on: Documentary of Sean Kenney – LEGO Certified Professional

By: Brad

Brad — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 02:15:00 +0000

I sometimes wonder about the legality of professional artists and amateur hobbyists. These questions may not apply to Kenney as a LEGO Certified Professional, but they would apply to an artist who makes their living from toy brick sculptures. Are original creations made from LEGO-brand bricks the intellectual property of the fan/artist? Can that person sell or license that creation as they see fit?

So far as I know, the answer to both of my questions is, “Yes.” LEGO actively protects its trademarks and brand name, but I’ve never heard of them going after someone who sold their own creation so long as it was not sold as an official LEGO item.

However, I remember the interview with Jake McKee (posted on The Bro Brick back on April 9, 2008) where he mentions visiting Brickfest in 2000 with the CEO, the marketing manager, and a lawyer (about 28 minutes into the video). The lawyer’s response: “They’re violating copyright like crazy!”, which sounds like LEGO being concerned over HOW fans use their product (I will note that this is in a video about how LEGO learned to grow as a company and start listening). So, perhaps the question could be better phrased as, “COULD the LEGO Group make trouble or attempt to prevent a non-sanctioned LEGO artist from selling their art? Again, I’m talking about creations that are not the intellectual property of a third party – something completely original to the artist – and where the artist is not claiming any LEGO approval.

Also, Sean Kenney is awesome.

…and so is Jamie Berard.

By: 3d

3d — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 10:54:21 +0000

Sean Kenney brought me back to Legos, Jamie Berard Brought back Legos to me and the Brothers Brick are nowhere near rehab! :)

Thousands of thanks for turning me into a no life geek with an near empty wallet and yet feeling good about it!

Keep up the good work all of you! Hugs anytime!

MV: I’m so with you on this! I’m afraid we won’t get to stick our half Lego ball with the charming lady…

By: MV

MV — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 15:39:25 +0000

Forget Sean…that reporter is gorgeous.

By: notenoughbricks

notenoughbricks — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 11:03:38 +0000

I stumbled upon Sean’s Times Square creation in Manhattan and it was a sight to behold. The little details that make up the creation are what bring this creation to life. I was happy to see this in person. I wonder if Sean gives tours of his workspace?!?!?!?!?!?

Wow, my comment is right after one by Jamie Berard-my favorite LEGO designer. I can’t wait to build Fire Brigade Mr. Berard! Your sets have not only inspired countless others to create CC styled buildings but your sets have all been tremendous/fun/educational building experiences. I’ll never forget the a-hah! moment I had while building the radiator in the 2nd floor of the Green Grocer. I couldn’t figure out what the heck I was supposed to be building and then when it was complete I was so impressed!

Hope there will be more CC buildings (after the Grand Emporium).

KEEP UP THE EXCELLENT WORK!

By: jamieberard

jamieberard — Sun, 24 Jan 2010 13:29:59 +0000

Really, really nice! It’s so cool to see Sean’s art getting world-wide attention. He’s a great guy and a fantastic builder.

By: Ochre Jelly

Ochre Jelly — Sat, 23 Jan 2010 23:13:50 +0000

What a charming and excellent video. My estimation for Sean has now doubled. But can you double infinity? I chuckled at the line “Its late at night, and Sean has spent all day building one eye”!

So Sean, are you hiring? ;-)