Can you copyright a design for an artistic installation?

[Charles528]

I have been asked to design a set for a play on behalf of a 501(c)3 non-profit in Virginia. This is a volunteer project, so no formal contract has been made and no monetary compensation is at stake; my compensation will be credit for the design and the ability to document the resulting work in my portfolio for future professional use. I am concerned my involvement in the project may be prematurely terminated and would like to secure intellectual property protection on my design and/or the resulting tangible work (including the installation itself). What are my options? How might fair use laws apply?

 

[xylene]

Even volunteers can have contracts.

If you are worried about being terminated, that is saying a lot.

Approach them with your demands that your work remains yours to use and and if they don't agree to sign, stop volunteering.