Left to Right: Vanessa Smith, Jackie Hope, Janine Carmichael, Nav Nain, Jasmine Yakabowich
Students teaching students: law students present on IP and business law at School of Art
Manitoba Legal Clinic for the Arts students share insights with MFA students to build stronger, more informed creative sector
Law students from the Faculty of Law, Manitoba Legal Clinic for the Arts, stepped into the world of art, and became instructors, on October 28, helping Master of Fine Arts (MFA) students navigate the legal side of creative practice. JD Candidates 2026, Vanessa Smith (3L), [B.Sc/2023], Jasmine Yakabowich (3L), [BA/2023], and Nav Nain (3L), [B.Comm (Hons.)/2018], led an interactive session with MFA students, exploring the topic of intellectual property (IP) and how it shapes the rights of artists and creators.
Igniting Careers
The session was part of a week-long series, called Ignite: Your Future as An Artist, organized by The Centre for the Advancement of Teaching and Learning, and IdeaStart, at the University of Manitoba, highlighted collaboration across disciplines, with law students sharing their expertise directly with peers in the School of Art.
The session presented by the Law Students covered the fundamentals of intellectual property — including copyright, trademarks, and moral rights — as well as the basics of contract law, legal negotiations and corporate structure, and how these concepts apply to the creative practices of visual artists, writers, performers, and interdisciplinary creators.
The presenters emphasized that understanding IP is not only about protecting artistic work, but also recognizing its value as a professional asset. They discussed how emerging artists can use IP strategically to advance their careers, from negotiating fair collaboration terms to ensuring proper credit for their creative contributions.
“Everyone was engaged and curious. It made for a great discussion,” said Vanessa Smith, who presented alongside her classmates. “As law students, it was rewarding to see how the legal concepts we have studied could be applied to help artists navigate real-world issues. I left the session inspired by the creativity and openness of the MFA students, and reminded of why intellectual property law matters: it gives artists a foundation to share their work confidently while maintaining control.”
Throughout the session, Master of Fine Arts students raised thoughtful questions about copyright in collaborative projects, the use of reference materials, and protecting work when exhibiting or publishing online.
“[W]hat a thrill to see students teaching other students.” – Janine Charmichael, Ignite, The Centre
Janine Carmichael, Faculty Specialist in Entrepreneurship and Co-Facilitator of Ignite at The Centre for the Advancement of Teaching and Learning, said “We appreciate the expertise of the Manitoba Legal Clinic for the Arts. They shared about key themes artists need to know about. And what a thrill to see students teaching other students.”
“The Manitoba Legal Clinic for the Arts is one of those key supports for our students who may pursue an independent art career.” – Jackie Hope, Ignite, The Centre
Echoing that sentiment, Jackie Hope, Educational Developer and Co-Facilitator of Ignite at The Centre for the Advancement of Teaching and Learning, added, “It’s key for students to know there are entrepreneurial supports available. The Manitoba Legal Clinic for the Arts is one of those key supports for our students who may pursue an independent art career.”
IP needs exist earlier and at every stage
A major theme of the presentation by the law students was the importance of IP education for artists at every stage of their careers. The Clinic’s involvement in sessions like this supports its broader mandate to provide legal education and outreach, particularly where creators might not otherwise have access to affordable guidance or information.
Nav Nain reflected, “Presenting to the MFA students was a great learning experience. It challenged us to communicate complex legal ideas in an accessible, engaging way — which is such an important skill for any future lawyer. It also showed us how vital this kind of knowledge is for artists. Many people don’t realize how often intellectual property intersects with everyday creative work, from collaborations to exhibitions.”
Conversations continue
Three law students from the Manitoba Legal Clinic for the Arts give a presentation to Master of Fine Arts students at the University of Manitoba.
The event demonstrated that conversations about intellectual property belong not only in law schools, but also in studios, classrooms, and community spaces where art is made and shared.
The Manitoba Legal Clinic for the Arts extends its sincere thanks to Janine Carmichael and Jackie Hope for their warm welcome and collaboration, and to the Master of Fine Arts students who participated so enthusiastically.
As the year continues, the Clinic looks forward to continuing outreach focused on intellectual property, creative rights, and helping artists protect and promote their work.
Free legal information and resources available
The Manitoba Legal Clinic for the Arts serve artists, creatives, and arts and cultural organizations throughout Manitoba. The Clinic is operated by law students at the University of Manitoba Faculty of Law. All services provided by law students are supervised by experienced lawyers.
For more information about free information, resources and legal assistance available from the only clinic in Manitoba that provides free legal information and services tailored specifically to artists and arts organizations check out: Manitoba Legal Clinic for the Arts