Why Art Licensing Might Not Be Right for You: A Veteran's Perspective

In Art Marketing News, industry expert Barney Davey, who has been active since 1988, evaluates art licensing as a potential income source for artists. He recalls the flourishing open-edition print market of the late 1980s, where licensing held a minimal position. With the rise of the internet, publishers transitioned to licensing and print-on-demand models. Davey encourages artists to reflect on their reasons for pursuing licensing, as it involves numerous contracts and years of effort before generating revenue. Artists must also give up some control over their creations while ensuring a consistent artistic style. He highlights successful licensed artists such as Paul Brent, Mary Engelbreit, and Bob Timberlake. Licensing should serve as a supplementary income stream, with self-awareness crucial for career fulfillment. This article acts as a practical resource for artists.