Do you own something I can sell?

My mother can sketch a good picture. I can scratch out slightly above average images. My oldest son and daughter seem to have the artistic nack as well. Creative artistry apparently runs in my family. But, recently someone took the initiative to declare my children's art above average. In fact, a significant label was attached that sets it higher than above average. When your artwork is worthy of someone else exchanging money for it, you've reached the rank of Professional.

Recently my children brought home some artwork that was re manufactured in to a magnet. Wonderful stuff. My son sketched a very colorful bird. My daughter gave her impression of our family pet (the fat cat) when he is happy and playful. I was delighted.

Where do magnets go of this caliber? On the refrigerator of course. On my approach to the fridge my wife suddenly stopped me and told me I had to pay for the artwork. $5.50 per magnet. If I didn't want to pay I had to return the artwork by Monday.

What? Who says?

The parent group for the school my children attend had the children create this great artwork to be re manufactured into anything saleable like magnets, t-shirts, coffee mugs, etc. A fund raiser. If I didn't want to buy an item I wouldn't see the original art work. I guess my children gave up their right to it when they agreed to participate.

Can this be true? My children are now professional artists. At least thats what someone else thinks. But where does the money go? What is my children's take? Where is the contract? Do my children understand they sold out? Does our family get a tax break?

Of course I am not serious. I understand it is a fund raiser for a good cause. I don't get it though. I want the original artwork. I don't want to be manipulated into paying for my children's artwork. I also don't want someone else paying for it.

This fund raising approach seems to have violated many principles. There is something not right about it. Do you understand what I am saying? Can you hear me?