Maxwell Graf is one of the most talented content creators in SL; not only that, he is a true gentleman. He is also someone I regard as a friend.
Anyone who has visited his sims, Rustica and LagNmoor, cannot fail to have been visually stunned by his creations: houses, furnishing, sculpties, – all have been crafted with an amazing eye for detail and a beautiful brush of style. His store at Rustica is simply a work of art.
So in some respects it is unsurprising that Max is the victim of content ripping; anyone making their way towards even moderate success is liable to be targeted – which really isn’t much of a recommendation for Second Life.
But in other respects, that anyone would try to nab Max’s work is surprising – simply because it is so utterly unique and instantly identifiable.
So it came as a bit of a shock to read this report from Max. It speaks pretty much for itself.
This is not the first time that someone has reported their content continuing to be sold after it has supposedly been taken down. However, as it seemed LL were getting their act together at the end of last year, one would have hoped that diligence would be maintained, and physical checks put in to monitor against the “return” of goods after an initial removal.
Max points to the recent layoffs as being potentially a reason for LL being unable to suitably police matters – but to be honest, this is Max being his usual generous self. Now, it could be that there has simply been a slip-up within LL, and items have been missed. However, their reply to Max’s further plea isn’t entirely helpful. All he can do is e-mail the Removals Team until they see fit to reply.
As a result, Max is shutting down his LagNmoor sim today.
Max lists the offending sims and those responsible in his blog. I urge anyone reading this piece to show support for Max and his creations and boycott these sims and any products sold by the individuals concerned.
I’d also urge anyone interested to take the time to visit LagNmoor before it is gone – and wander through Rustica as well. Both sims are a visual feast.
See and hear Max on You Tube in a video tour of Rustica.
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