Stealing Design, Copying of Other People’s Work

Recently, I stumbled upon a site belonging to an individual (www.xomox.cn) and discovered that my entire design portfolio has been stolen and copied word for word, to use as his own. I don’t think anyone has ever experienced this kind of blatant infringement before. I knew him long ago in New York City through a girlfriend as she was dating him. Let’s just say this has never been someone that I trusted, although we were in the same field of graphic design, I had advised him on many design and career path matters. Almost 10 years later, I discovered that he stole my work – he’s located in China so I can’t really pursue this legally (or could I?). He was wishing that I would never find out but it’s the web, so you can find anything. I called him and he promptly took it down, realizing that he’s in for a lot of legal drama. His explanation was that “my hard drive is down and I had to show my prospective clients some inspiration of work so I just borrowed yours and was going to call you for permission and now that we are clear, can I borrow your piece on Ann Taylor just to show my client that this is the direction I want to pursue?”. (As if I should be flattered) No, this guy didn’t credit my name, the companies I worked for. Even the project description and sizes of images are identical.

The images below show MY work on the left column, and his exact replica on the right. On his client list he listed all my clients verbatim.  They are completely identical. How can we protect our work so this doesn’t happen?

I hope this never happens to any designer out there.

jennyng.com (owner) vs. xomox.cn (copier)

Shop for Wines

Mention this postcard and get 10% off from your wine purchase at New York Wine Co. Starts December! 21 Warren St in Tribeca, New York

Introducing DesignOutreach

I am pleased to announce the launch of my new company “DesignOutreach“. The official site goes live in January 2007. DesignOutreach is a design company that will be serving exclusively nonprofit arts organizations in the Asian American arts community. Please spread the word to someone who would be interested!

Grand Opening – New York Wine Co.

It’s grand opening for New York Wine Co., a hi-end fine wine merchant located in the heart of Tribeca at 21 Warren Street. The identity program I was commissioned to do received wonderful comments at the opening events. For those who appreciate and want to indulge, they offer some of the world’s best wines of all appellations–Go shop!!

Creative Portfolio

It has been a while but finally, I’ve found the time to do a website to house my best work. This is only temporary to give people access to view my work. Soon there will be a more visual interface, hopefully in Flash that will make this site more chic. Please feel free to refer my work to those you know who needs design service.

A New Store for Wine Lovers

Attention all fine-wine drinkers! I’ve recently designed a package brand identity and website and signage system for a new wine store called New York Wine Co. The store is set to open sometime in October, along with a full-scale e-commerce website launching a bit after. It is my first project done as a free woman (free from full-time hell) designed from a holistic consulting perspective and it’s very exciting.

New York Wine Co. is a hi-concept wine merchant located in Tribeca, New York catering to the fine wine drinker. Selection varies from Europe, Asia, Australia, and Africa. It is a kickass event. More to come!