WORKS OF APPLIED ART AS OBJECTS OF INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

Abstract

This article examines works of applied art as a distinct category of intellectual property and analyzes their legal status within the system of copyright and the mechanisms of their protection. First, the concept of applied art is clarified, with an explanation of its distinguishing and individual features in comparison with fine art, handicraft and mass-produced goods. The article then explores the criteria required for recognizing works of applied art as objects of copyright protection, such as creativity, individuality, aesthetic value and the originality of form. Furthermore, the legal protection of applied art works under national legislation and international legal norms is studied on a comparative basis. The points of intersection between applied art objects and design, trademarks and industrial designs are identified, and existing problems in the correct legal classification and registration of such objects are analyzed. The economic, cultural and legal significance of recognizing objects of decorative-applied art as intellectual property is substantiated, and proposals and recommendations are put forward to improve legal protection and to raise awareness among artists, designers and craftsmen working in the field of applied art about intellectual property rights, as well as to ensure the effective safeguarding of their interests.