Thought I would start a thread to chronicle the creation of Talismania.net so that as I upload each new update and make it colser and closer to a fully functional site people can let me know what they like and what they don't like.

Current Status:
The page is literally a static mock up of general design. None of the links work and the page merely gives you an idea of where content will be.
One cool little feature I have implemented is that the background graphic at the top will randomly change between Main Game and expansion images each time you refresh the page.

I like that background variation. Makes it feel like a fresh site each time.

It's looking good... but...

I know from my work in the publishing industry that one does not use the artwork or cover of product in this way. I don't know how FFG or the original artist feels about this. Perhaps they don't care, but then again...

Your best way to settle this matter is to contact FFG directly and ask. They might be amendable to it, if it is free advertising for purchase of the game. Especially if you were to add a subtitle like "A fan site for the game of Talisman by Fantasy Flight Games" and the link the word Talisman to the page where it is purchased and perhaps link the term FFG to their main site page. But it would be best to clear this up. Don't assume that what other sites have done is acceptable to copy. I for one would love to see you site get off to a rock solid start.

Already contacted FFG and asked them about their policies regarding fansites and the like

It would be good to ask and make sure you can use these in the body of the site. I use artwork that has been sent specifically for preview or indeed that I own. You would be advised to visit the GW website and use the standard disclaimer (mine is slightly altered) from them too as the IP belongs to them.

I checked on the artwork thing and have the required Copyright info to place in the footer of my site, as you can tell from the design so far, I havent reached the footer. I think I will get this done next before I polish of the main content boxes so the site is in compliance as soon as possible though.

Sounds like you have it all under control. Did you contact the artist as well, since the artist still holds copyright on the artwork itself? The publisher cannot speak for the artist's permission to use the image unless the publisher bought complete world rights ad infinatum.

He has a message waiting for him on DeviantArt, I think FFG/GW holds the copyright though jusdging by what is written on the peices on his DeviantArt page.

I appreciate all the feedback guys. I work at my best when I have people regularly commenting

Update: Placed the legal disclaimer on the bottom of the page.

Very good! But be aware that it is rare for artists to sell off complete rights. That's just not the way things really work. Copyright and complete ownership are not the same thing, so it is good that you are touching base with the artist. If the artist has any hesitation and still holds right to the original work, you might offer a promotional exchange. Maybe a page like my wife and I use on our site called Acknowledgments, where we provide links to the sites of other people and organizations that have contributed to our work, products, or the site itself.