30+ Art Licensing Companies To Partner With

Art licensing is a way for artists to earn money by allowing their artwork to be used for commercial purposes, such as on products like clothing, home decor, and stationery.

When an artist licenses their work to a company, the company pays the artist a royalty for each product that features their artwork.

One way for artists to get started in art licensing is to submit their work to art licensing companies. These companies are always looking for new artists to add to their roster and may be interested in seeing your portfolio. To submit your work, you can usually find the email address for the art licensing department or the person in charge of artist relations on the company's website.

It's important to note that art licensing companies receive a large volume of submissions and may not be able to respond to every artist. However, by submitting your work, you are increasing your chances of being noticed and potentially being selected to work with the company.

It's also a good idea to research the company before submitting your work to make sure that it is a good fit for your style and goals. Some companies may specialize in a specific type of artwork or have a specific theme for their products.

By submitting your work to companies that align with your style and interests, you are more likely to find a good fit and be successful in the art licensing industry.

Also see these examples of statements for painters and my freelance illustration pricing guide.

Email your portfolio to these art licensing companies below

I have compiled a list of art licensing companies that are currently accepting new submissions from artists.

This list is regularly updated to ensure the most current opportunities are available.

If you are interested in pursuing art licensing as a career, I recommend submitting your portfolio to these companies.

FAQs – Art licensing companies

What is the difference between an art licensing agent and an art gallery?

An art licensing agent is a professional who represents artists and helps them secure licensing agreements and other opportunities for their artwork. An art licensing agent typically works on behalf of the artist to negotiate terms, handle paperwork, and promote the artist's work to potential clients. An art licensing agent may work with multiple artists and may specialize in a specific type of artwork or industry.

An art gallery, on the other hand, is a physical or online space that exhibits and sells artwork. Art galleries typically represent a group of artists and showcase their work to the public, either through physical exhibitions or online platforms. Art galleries may also represent artists for the purpose of selling their work to collectors or other buyers.

How much does an art licensing company take?

Art licensing companies typically take a percentage of the sale price of products that feature the licensed artwork as their fee for using the artwork. This percentage is known as the royalty rate, and it is typically agreed upon in the contract between the artist and the company.

The royalty rate can vary depending on a variety of factors, including the type of products the artwork will be used on, the quantity of products that will be produced, the length of the license, and the artist's experience and market value.

In general, royalty rates for art licensing can range from a few percent to 50% or more of the sale price, depending on the specific terms of the agreement. Some companies may offer a higher royalty rate for higher-priced products, while others may offer a lower rate for lower-priced products.

What should I charge for art licensing?

The amount that an artist charges for art licensing will depend on a variety of factors, including the type of products the artwork will be used on, the quantity of products that will be produced, the length of the license, and the artist's experience and market value.

This is probably the most important thing to understand as you're learning how to license your artwork.

In general, artists who are just starting out in art licensing may charge lower rates, while more experienced artists with a strong portfolio and a solid track record may be able to command higher rates. It's important for artists to consider their own skills, experience, and market value when setting their rates and to be realistic about what they can expect to earn.

It's also important to note that the art licensing industry is competitive, and artists may need to be flexible with their rates in order to secure licensing agreements. It may be helpful to research industry standards and trends to get a sense of what other artists are charging for similar work.

I recommend trying to find a niche or industry unique to you and your art. This way you aren't competing with thousanes of other artists. An example of a unique niched or industry could be along the lines something like surf art.

Ultimately, the most important thing is to find a rate that is fair and reasonable for both the artist and the company and that reflects the value of the artist's work. It's a good idea for artists to carefully consider their costs and financial needs when setting their rates and to be prepared to negotiate as necessary.

How much can you make licensing artwork?

The amount of money that an artist can make through art licensing can vary significantly depending on a number of factors, including the type of products the artwork is used on, the quantity of products sold, the royalty rate agreed upon in the contract, and the overall success of the product line.

Some artists may earn a few hundred dollars per year from art licensing, while others may earn several thousand or more. It's important to keep in mind that art licensing is just one potential source of income for artists, and the overall financial success of an artist will depend on a variety of factors, including their art sales, other income streams, and expenses.

It's also important to note that art licensing is a competitive industry, and not all artists who pursue it will be successful in securing licensing agreements or earning significant income from it.

However, for artists who are able to establish themselves in the industry and build a strong portfolio, art licensing can be a valuable source of income and a way to monetize their art.

How do I find art licensing companies to work with?

Here are a few suggestions for finding art licensing companies to work with:

Online search: One way to find art licensing companies is to do an online search using keywords such as “art licensing,” “art licensing companies,” or “art licensing opportunities.” This can help you find a variety of companies that are actively seeking artists to work with.
Industry resources: There are many industry resources available that can help you find art licensing companies. These can include trade publications, online communities for artists, and professional organizations. These resources can provide valuable information about the art licensing industry and help you connect with potential partners.
Networking: Networking is an important part of the art licensing process. By connecting with other artists, industry professionals, and potential clients, you can learn about new opportunities and make valuable connections that can help you find art licensing companies to work with.
Direct submission: Many art licensing companies accept direct submissions from artists. You can usually find the email address for the art licensing department or the person in charge of artist relations on the company's website. By submitting your portfolio and a brief introduction, you can introduce yourself and your work to potential art licensing partners.

What should I include in my art licensing portfolio?

Your art licensing portfolio should include a variety of artworks that demonstrate your art style and range.

It is also important to include artworks that are suitable for a variety of product categories, as this will show art licensing companies that you are versatile and can create art for a wide range of products.

What is the difference between an art agent and an art licensing company?

An art agent is a professional who represents artists and helps them secure licensing agreements and other opportunities for their artwork. An art agent typically works on behalf of the artist to negotiate terms, handle paperwork, and promote the artist's work to potential clients. An art agent may work with multiple artists and may specialize in a specific type of artwork or industry.

An art licensing company, on the other hand, is a business that licenses artwork from artists and uses it on its own products. An art licensing company typically has its own roster of artists and may work with a variety of different styles and mediums. The company pays the artist a royalty for each product that features their artwork and handles the production and distribution of the products.

What are the benefits of working with art licensing companies?

Here are some potential benefits of working with art licensing companies:

Exposure: Art licensing allows artists to expose their work to a wider audience by having it featured on products that are sold by the licensing company. This can be a great way for artists to gain visibility and potentially reach new customers.
Passive income: Art licensing is a way for artists to generate a passive income stream from their art. Instead of actively promoting and managing sales, the artist can earn income by allowing their artwork to be used on products that are sold by the licensing company. This can be a convenient and efficient way for artists to monetize their work.
Professional development: Working with art licensing companies can provide artists with valuable experience and opportunities for professional development. This can include learning about the art licensing industry, building relationships with industry professionals, and gaining exposure to different markets and audiences.
Creative freedom: Many art licensing agreements allow artists to retain creative control over their work. This means that the artist can continue to create and share their work as they see fit, while also earning income from its use on commercial products.
Financial stability: By generating a passive income stream from art licensing, artists can potentially increase their financial stability and have more flexibility in their careers. This can allow artists to focus on their creative pursuits without having to worry as much about financial issues.

I hope this helps! Keep in mind that the benefits of working with art licensing companies can vary depending on the specific terms of the agreement and the needs and goals of the artist.

What are the disadvantages of working with art licensing companies?

Here are some potential disadvantages of working with art licensing companies:

Limited control: While many art licensing agreements allow artists to retain creative control over their work, the final use of the artwork may be determined by the licensing company. This can mean that the artwork may be modified or used in ways that the artist did not anticipate or agree to.
Royalty rates: The royalty rate that an artist receives for their work may be lower than what they could potentially earn by selling their work directly to customers. This can be a disadvantage for artists who are looking to maximize their income from their art.
Competition: The art licensing industry is highly competitive, and it can be difficult for artists to stand out and secure licensing agreements. This can be especially challenging for artists who are just starting out or have a unique or niche style.
Legal issues: Working with art licensing companies can involve complex legal issues, such as contracts and intellectual property rights. It is important for artists to thoroughly understand these issues and seek legal advice if necessary to protect their interests.
Time and effort: Securing an art licensing agreement can be a time-consuming and potentially frustrating process. It may require a significant investment of time and effort to research potential partners, create a portfolio, and submit work for consideration.

What type of artwork is most popular for art licensing?

The type of artwork that is most popular for art licensing can vary depending on the market and the specific needs of companies.

However, some general trends can be observed.

For example, many art licensing companies are interested in artwork that is visually appealing and has mass appeal, as it will be featured on products that are intended for a wide audience. This can include themes such as nature, animals, and abstract designs.

In addition, some companies may be interested in artwork that has a specific theme or style that aligns with their brand identity.

For example, a company that specializes in children's products may be interested in artwork with a whimsical or playful theme.

It's important for artists to research the needs and preferences of potential art licensing partners to increase their chances of success.

Do I need a contract when working with art licensing companies?

Having a contract is important when working with art licensing companies because it helps to protect both the artist and the company by clearly outlining the terms of the agreement.

A contract should include information about the length of the license, which is the amount of time that the company is allowed to use the artwork. This could be a specific period of time, such as one year, or it could be an open-ended license that lasts indefinitely until terminated by either party.

The contract should also specify the products that the artwork can be used on. This might include specific product categories, such as clothing, home decor, or stationery, or it could be more general and allow the artwork to be used on any type of product.

The royalty rate is another important element of the contract. This is the percentage of the sale price that the artist will receive for each product that features their artwork. The royalty rate can vary depending on the type of product, the length of the license, and other factors.

In addition to these key elements, the contract may also include other details, such as the rights and responsibilities of each party, provisions for terminating the agreement, and provisions for disputes.

It's important for both the artist and the company to carefully review and understand the terms of the contract before signing it to ensure that it is fair and aligns with their needs and expectations.

What is art licensing?

Art licensing is a way for artists to monetize their artwork by allowing it to be used for commercial purposes.

When an artist licenses their work to a company, the company pays the artist a royalty for each product that features their artwork.

To enter into an art licensing agreement, an artist typically signs a contract with the company.

This contract outlines the terms of the agreement, including the length of the license, the products that the art can be used on, the royalty rate, and any other relevant details.

It is important for both the artist and the company to carefully review and understand the terms of the contract before signing it to ensure that it is fair and aligns with their needs and expectations.

Art licensing is a great way for artists to generate a passive income stream from their art. Instead of actively promoting and managing sales, the artist can earn income by allowing their artwork to be used on products that are sold by the licensing company.

This can be a convenient and efficient way for artists to monetize their work and generate additional income.