Mossenson, Dan --- "The effectiveness of Australia's legal system in addressing problematic artwork" [2020] ELECD 100; in McCutcheon, Jani; McGaughey, Fiona (eds), "Research Handbook on Art and Law" (Edward Elgar Publishing, 2020) 177

Book Title: Research Handbook on Art and Law

Editor(s): McCutcheon, Jani; McGaughey, Fiona

Publisher: Edward Elgar Publishing

Section: Chapter 11

Section Title: The effectiveness of Australia’s legal system in addressing problematic artwork

Author(s): Mossenson, Dan

Number of pages: 16

Abstract/Description:

Australia’s legal system does not deal effectively with problematic artwork. Problematic artwork refers to paintings, sculptures, drawings, engravings, photographs and the like which have in some way been produced or marketed unlawfully or inappropriately. Fraud, breach of contract, unconscionable conduct, deception and criminality may be involved. Problems associated with problematic artwork are magnified in the case of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artwork. Despite its prevalence, relatively few cases of problematic artwork reach the courts. The law which deals with it is uncertain and complex. There are inadequacies in the relief and remedies available. Consequently, there is little disincentive for problematic art offenders to cease operating. The chapter considers these matters and addresses court cases that have been adjudicated in recent decades. In addressing the inadequacies of the Australian legal system in dealing with this problem, the chapter considers both the public and private interest issues involved as well as the general community’s attitude to problematic artwork.