Art Theft

Unfortunately those of us who share our art in this digital age sometimes get our art highjacked.  Not reproductions to further their skills, not for inspiration, but flat out taking the image and coloring it, or just redrawing as is for the most part.  And then they sign it or try to pass it off as their own original creation.  It doesn't allow for growth and it isn't fair to those of us who like the sense of community with fellow artists no matter how far along they are in experience.  I do admit, tattoo artists can be a cocky lot of pricks, but they should at least respect the artist of their type.  I work hard to create one of a kind pieces for my clients and friends that want them, but of course we do flash (pre-made tattoo art) and reproductions of all types of art onto skin.  I found signed reproduction of this image (it was shaded in, that's the only difference really) and I simply pointed out that it was rude to pass off someone else's work as their own.  This has become my most popular piece and so many wonderful artists have re-created it on skin and used it to inspire hundreds of tattoos all over the world.
browse.deviantart.com/art/Drea…

I drew it last year and it pretty much went as viral as tattoos can go.  I was excited because I put it up for personal use and people ran with it.

This guy (Obviously he blocked me on Instagram for calling him out):
www.facebook.com/phatz.one.for…
Instagram: itsmrphatz1904

He then wrote on one of my images:
"Don't comment what you don't know on my page please, if I was DaVinci I'd draw a perfect circle but what artist doesn't use tools for this, as for it not being original I can take a pic or vid of the original if necessary."

He posted it tonight, and I posted it almost a year ago. I am sad that this has happened more than once with this piece, and I know it happens all the time to other artists here.  Just because you watermark it, doesn't mean it won't be stolen.  I want to reiterate that I am not talking about those that redraw works they like to help further their skills.  I am only referring to those that blatantly steal.  I know I should probably let these things go, but I think as artist, we need to stand up for our work.  It doesn't matter how small the piece is or how insignificant.  If it came from you, it is a part of you and it deserves to be protected.  

Just left a bad taste in my mouth.  My rant is now over. <3