What is licensing?
Licensing is the business of leasing the right to use a legally protected graphic, artwork, name, logo. Licensing includes publishing (i.e. printing of posters, greeting cards, etc.) It includes 'cross-merchandising' items such as t-shirts, coasters, bags, book marks-literally hundreds of items. Cross-merchandising is done through licensing agents. They buy rights and give the artist royalties to have their artwork printed onto different objects. Making money in the publishing or licensing industry comes when you sell large quantities. To create this large quantity, you often need a variety of items to be sold.
You might ask, "How can I introduce my work to the licensing marketplace?"
Many artists have been quite successful. One artist who received her start in the card industry some 14 years ago has 50 licensees now and is heading for more.
Recruiting an Agent
A licensing agent, the ideal way to enter the licensing industry, is always looking for the perfect 'marriage' in the marketplace for her artist and product. Publishers often act as agents for their artists, showcasing their work at licensing shows.
An agent's commission is generally 35-50%. Having an agent is well-worth the fee. Agents are more aware of the marketplace, thus able to get more licenses. Being your own agent in this field is a full-time job that you don't want.
Royalty Rates
Some rates are higher because the artist are more established. Others seemed to vary simply from licensee to licensee.
Copyright © 2008 Nadia Russ All Rights Reaserved
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