Art licensing trade shows are a pivotal part of the art licensing world. For artists and designers looking to expand their reach, these events provide an incredible opportunity to connect with manufacturers, showcase their work, and dive into the business side of creativity.
If you’re new to this concept, understanding what these trade shows are and why they matter is the first step to exploring this exciting avenue.
Key Points
- Art licensing trade shows are events where artists, manufacturers, and buyers gather to connect and discuss potential licensing opportunities.
- Popular shows include SURTEX, Blueprint, and Licensing Expo, each catering to different audiences within the licensing industry.
- Artists typically rent booths to showcase their work, but attending as a visitor can also be a valuable learning experience.
- These shows are not open to the general public; they are specifically designed for industry professionals.
- Preparation and research are crucial to making the most of your visit or participation.
What Are Art Licensing Trade Shows?
Art licensing trade shows are exciting events where artists like us and industry professionals come together to explore ways to license artwork. These shows are packed with booths and displays by artists, studios, and agents, showcasing art that can be used on products like greeting cards, textiles, and home decor. It’s where manufacturers, buyers, and licensors go to find designs that perfectly fit their product lines.
Why Are These Trade Shows Important?
Art licensing trade shows serve as a meeting ground for professionals in the art licensing industry. They allow artists to:
- Gain exposure to potential clients and licensors.
- Understand current trends in licensed art.
- Network with industry leaders and peers.
- Learn about the business side of art licensing.
For beginners, these events can feel overwhelming, but they are an excellent way to step into the world of licensing and see how the industry operates firsthand.
Popular Art Licensing Trade Shows
Art licensing trade shows are key events for artists and industry professionals to connect, collaborate, and explore new opportunities. In this section, we’ll introduce some of the most popular art licensing trade shows and what makes them unique.
SURTEX
SURTEX is one of the most well-known art licensing trade shows in the United States. It focuses on surface design and offers a platform for artists to showcase their patterns, illustrations, and other designs. Attendees include manufacturers from industries like home decor, apparel, and stationery.
- Location: New York City, typically held annually.
- Who Attends: Surface designers, licensing agents, and manufacturers.
- What to Expect: A highly focused event on surface design and art licensing.
Blueprint
Blueprint is a smaller but highly specialized trade show for surface designers and illustrators. It offers a more intimate setting, which can be less intimidating for beginners.
- Location: New York City and sometimes virtual options.
- Who Attends: Independent artists, small studios, and niche manufacturers.
- What to Expect: A friendly atmosphere ideal for networking.
Licensing Expo
The Licensing Expo is the largest trade show focused on all aspects of licensing, not just art. While it covers a broader range of industries, it remains a great place for artists to learn and connect.
- Location: Las Vegas.
- Who Attends: A mix of licensors from entertainment, brands, and art.
- What to Expect: A large-scale event that showcases the entire licensing ecosystem.
Printsource
Printsource is a trade show dedicated to textile and surface design. It’s an excellent choice for artists interested in licensing their designs for fabric, wallpaper, and other surface applications.
- Location: New York City.
- Who Attends: Textile manufacturers, fashion brands, and home decor companies.
- What to Expect: A focus on patterns and designs for textiles.
Creativeworld
Creativeworld is an international trade fair that combines art supplies, craft materials, and art licensing. While it’s broader than a traditional licensing show, it offers opportunities to showcase art to a global audience.
- Location: Frankfurt, Germany.
- Who Attends: Artists, retailers, and art supply manufacturers.
- What to Expect: A large international event with diverse opportunities for artists.
Licensing International Expo China
The Licensing International Expo China is a trade show is a regional version of the Licensing Expo, focusing on the booming licensing market in Asia. It’s a fantastic opportunity for artists looking to expand into international markets.
- Location: Shanghai, China.
- Who Attends: Asian manufacturers, licensors, and brands.
- What to Expect: A gateway to the Asian licensing industry.
Heimtextil
Heimtextil is the largest international trade fair for textiles, offering opportunities for artists specializing in textile designs to connect with manufacturers in the home and hospitality sectors.
- Location: Frankfurt, Germany.
- Who Attends: Textile manufacturers, interior designers, and product developers.
- What to Expect: A comprehensive look at the textile industry, with a focus on innovation and trends.
Progressive Greetings Live
Progressive Greeting Live UK-based trade show focuses on the greeting card industry. It’s an excellent platform for artists creating designs for cards and stationery.
- Location: London, United Kingdom.
- Who Attends: Greeting card publishers, retailers, and designers.
- What to Expect: A niche event dedicated to greeting cards and related products.
London Stationery Show
The London Stationary Show event targets the stationery and gift industries, providing a space for artists to license designs for notebooks, planners, and related items.
- Location: London, United Kingdom.
- Who Attends: Stationery brands, gift manufacturers, and independent artists.
- What to Expect: A specialized focus on stationery products.
Maison & Objet
Maison & Objet is a leading home decor and lifestyle trade show where artists can connect with manufacturers looking for unique designs.
- Location: Paris, France.
- Who Attends: Home decor brands, designers, and buyers.
- What to Expect: A high-end showcase of creative designs and trends in the home industry.
NSS (National Stationery Show)
The National Stationery Show is a well-established event in the US, focusing on paper goods and gifts. It’s a fantastic place for artists creating stationery designs to showcase their work.
- Location: New York City.
- Who Attends: Stationery brands, gift shops, and licensing agents.
- What to Expect: A vibrant market dedicated to stationery and paper goods.
How to Attend an Art Licensing Trade Show
Navigating an art licensing trade show for the first time can be both exciting and overwhelming. Whether you plan to exhibit or simply attend, these events offer invaluable insights into the art licensing industry. Understanding what to expect and how to prepare ensures you make the most of the experience and connect with the right people.
As an Exhibitor
Exhibiting at an art licensing trade show involves renting booth space, preparing a professional display, and showcasing your portfolio. This option is ideal for artists ready to present their work to manufacturers and licensors.
- Cost: Booth rental fees can be expensive, ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 depending on the show and location.
- Preparation: Create a professional portfolio and invest in eye-catching booth displays.
- Connections: Focus on making meaningful connections with potential clients.
As an Attendee
For beginners, attending as a visitor can be a great way to familiarize yourself with the industry before investing in a booth.
- Cost: Visitor passes are generally much cheaper than booth rentals.
- Observation: Use this time to observe how other artists and companies present themselves.
- Learning: Attend workshops, panels, or talks often hosted during these events.
What to Bring to a Trade Show
When preparing for an art licensing trade show, having the right materials and mindset can make all the difference. Whether you’re an exhibitor or an attendee, knowing what to bring and how to present yourself ensures you’ll leave a lasting impression and make the most of the event.
Portfolio
A well-organized portfolio showcasing your strongest work is essential. Digital and physical versions are both useful, depending on the show’s setup.
Business Cards
Bring plenty of business cards to hand out to potential clients or collaborators. These should include your contact details and website.
Promotional Materials
Flyers, postcards, or small samples can leave a lasting impression on attendees.
Notebook or Device for Notes
You’ll gather a lot of information and meet many people, so having a way to take notes is crucial.
Preparing for Art Licensing Trade Shows
Attending an art licensing trade show requires careful preparation and planning. These events are bustling with opportunities, but navigating them successfully starts with doing your homework and setting clear goals. Here, we’ll cover everything you need to know to feel confident and make the most of your trade show experience.
Research the Event
Before attending, research the show’s audience and participants. This helps you tailor your portfolio and presentation to align with their interests.
Set Goals
Decide whether you’re aiming to make direct sales, network, or simply learn more about the industry. Having clear objectives will guide your experience.
Understand Costs
Beyond the booth fee or visitor pass, account for travel, lodging, and promotional materials in your budget.
What Is an Art Licensing Trade Show?
An art licensing trade show is an event where artists and designers showcase their work to manufacturers and licensors interested in using designs on products.
Are Art Licensing Trade Shows Open to the Public?
No, these events are exclusively for industry professionals, including artists, manufacturers, and licensing agents.
Can Beginners Attend Art Licensing Trade Shows?
Yes, attending as a visitor is a great way for beginners to learn about the industry and observe how experienced artists present their work.
How Do I Know Which Trade Show Is Right for Me?
Research the focus and attendees of each show. For example, SURTEX is great for surface design, while the Licensing Expo offers a broader range of industries.
Where Can I Learn More About Art Licensing?
Check out these resources for more information on art licensing: