Inkholding

Inkholding refers to the practice of a writer or artist maintaining possession of their own creative works, as opposed to assigning or selling these rights to a publisher or patron. Historically, this could involve the creator physically keeping manuscripts, drawings, or other forms of their output. In a more modern context, inkholding can also pertain to retaining intellectual property rights, such as copyright, over one's creations.

This approach offers creators greater control over how their work is distributed, adapted, and monetized. It allows them to make independent decisions about publishing, licensing, and any subsequent uses of their material. For instance, an author who inkholds their novel might choose to self-publish, license it for film adaptation, or retain it for future sequels without needing external approval.

However, inkholding can also present challenges. Creators may need to manage the production, marketing, and distribution themselves, which can be resource-intensive. Securing funding or finding reliable partners for these aspects can be difficult. Despite these potential hurdles, the ability to maintain direct ownership and reap the full rewards of their creative endeavors remains a significant draw for many artists and writers who choose to inkhold.