Farmers create Teletubbies from hay bales, sparking copyright debate
In Smiltene municipality, farmers have built Teletubbies figures from hay bales in a field. Social media users debate potential copyright infringement, but most see it as harmless creativity.
In the Smiltene region, near the A2 highway in the direction of Ape, at the turn to Mēri, Teletubbies characters have appeared in the middle of a field. This year's environmental art installation was created by local farmers from the “Palejas” farm in Bilskas parish, together with their friends. For over a decade, they have been making such sculptures from hay bales, turning them into a summer tradition that attracts both locals and passersby.
The installation quickly gained attention on social media, with hundreds of shares. However, a comment by Einars Zigurs raised concerns about unauthorized use of intellectual property. He compared it to recent tractor competitions in Rēzekne, where police launched proceedings due to a minor issue. He questioned why everyone is happy about a copyright violation while another event faces cancellation.
Many commenters disagreed. Rasa Vītola argued that there is no copyright infringement if no profit is made, and that the farmer can do what he wants on his own land. Irita Elliņa noted that the “Palejas” farmers have been doing this for years without complaints, and unlike the tractor event, no official permits are needed since it's private property.
The farmers emphasize that they create these objects solely for their own and others' pleasure, with no commercial intent. The tradition has lasted for over ten years, and each year brings something new. Local residents and travelers look forward to it and appreciate the creativity. This story shows that people still enjoy simple, heartfelt creations made with effort and imagination, far from large tourist attractions.
