Art & Design Licensing Source Book 2018

SUMMER 2018

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DESIGNS FOR EVERY SURFACE BEGIN AT SURTEX. • Meet exhibiting artists, global design studios and agencies • Source thousands of creative works for your next hit product • Spot print and pattern trends • Discover the latest colors and styles • Network with manufacturers and retailers LEARN MORE AT SURTEX.COM

MAY 20 - 22, 2018 | JACOB JAVITS CONVENTION CENTER | NYC

WWW.SURTEX.COM ARTISTS INTERESTED IN EXHIBITING, CONTACT HELLO@SURTEX.COM

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Leader

Welcome Welcome to the 2018/19 issue of the Art & Design Licensing Source Book. The art licensing sector continues to be blessed with an ever-burgeoning pool of creative talent, spanning just about every country around the globe. The articles and advertising in this issue give licensees and retailers an opportunity to digest current trends, up-coming artists, and global agencies who are ready to work with them on great collaborations, culminating with great product at retail – from cookshops to calendar shops, greetings to gifts.

In this issue we preview the up-coming trade shows spanning Above: The Art & Design LSB team at The Licensing Awards, which is the globe. First up is Surtex in New York, which for most is focal also owned and organised by Max Publishing. point and must-attend event. The Javits centre pays host to l to r: Michelle Board, Rob Willis, Jakki Brown, Ian Hyder, Samantha hundreds of artists, designers and agencies who are ready and Loveday, Jacqui Parr. waiting with portfolio books offering every style and trend that could possible be desired. The show affords success; every single year we read and hear stories of first-time exhibiting artists being uncovered, agencies picking up brilliant levels of new business, not to mention the opportunity student artists are offered via the designext competition. You just have to be there if you’re in the business of art and image licensing.

Heading to the West coast, Las Vegas plays host to Licensing Expo, the world's largest licensing exhibition which includes a solid section for the art world. As these two shows overlap in dates once again, it does require some careful planning, but once that’s done there is every opportunity to see the entire world of art in just a few short days.

On the other side of the water, London sees Progressive Greetings Live (PG Live) in early June, which is dedicated to the world of greetings - a staple of business for artists and creatives, while we’ll be back to Olympia in October for Brand Licensing Europe. There’s just so many opportunities to get out there, we’ve previewed all of these great exhibitions in this issue. The Art LSB team will be at all of these shows, as will copies of this magazine.

Additionally, we’ve been fortunate to have some great conversations about what’s coming up this year. Our State of the Nation pages carry all the latest news from the art, design, and image licensing sectors. We’ve been behind the scenes at Bright to hear more about its expansion both geographically and in terms of its offer, we’ve caught up with major licensing agents to gauge the performance of the market and current trends, plus some great first hand interviews with licensee Neviti, new Surtex exhibitor Artshine, and a positivity led talk with May The Thoughts Be With You. We hope you enjoy reading this year’s publication and thank you for making it so conclusive – the art licensing world is lucky to have you!

The Art & Design LSB Team

Cover Story Jane Newland is an illustrator based in Norfolk, UK. Her work is created both traditionally and digitally to deliver a beautiful result with stunning details. Since becomign a freelance illustrator Jane has had the privilege of working with high end brands such as Anthropologie, Time Square Hong Kong, Breathe Magazine, Leonidas, The Art File, Usborne, Harper Collins US, Egmont, Little Tiger Press, among others.

Jane says: "When Bright asked me which division I would like to work in, I said all of them please! I love the variety - I’ve been working on books, creating personal work for licensing, and working to commission. I love that I have the freedom to explore colour, technique and ideas with my personal work, which I can then transfer to the other areas where appropriate. It’s also meant that I’ve had a constant flow of work, which is fantastic.

A big thank you to Bright!"

The Art & Design Licensing Source Book is published by Max Publishing Ltd (London). United House, North Road, London, N7 9DP. hello@max-publishing.co.uk Rob Willis – Publishing Director, Jakki Brown – Joint MD & Editor in Chief, Ian Hyder – Joint MD, Warren Lomax – Joint MD, Samantha Loveday – Editor. Mark Grayson – Creative Director. Design & Reproducton – Method UK. Contributing editors: Sarah Welsh, Jacqui Parr. www.licensingsource.net

Read The Art & Design LSB and other publications online at issuu.com/maxpublishing

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A great show that never disappoints!

We want our card offering to be ‘unique and different’ and found loads of incredibly fresh designs that fit this bill perfectly Kirsty Hicks, card buyer, Waitrose

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Register now to receive your free copy of the PG Live 2018 Show Preview, a fantastic peek behind the scenes of this year’s anniversary show, with exclusive launches and show-only offers from over 260 publishers, artists and designers.

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Book Your Tickets Now

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Contents

Contents 07

07 State of the Nation: Corporate News 13

State of the Nation: Photography & Image Art

15

State of the Nation: Graphic Art

17

State of the Nation: Contemporary Art

19

Interview: May The Thoughts Be With You

25

Show Preview: Surtex 2018

35

Interview: Artshines from down-under

39 Interview: Bright Agency

15 25

13

47

Agency Feedback: Artisic licensing

49

Licensee focus: Trend spotting with Neviti

51

Show Preview: PG Live 2018

55 Show Preview: Licensing Expo 2018 59 Show Preview: Brand Licensing Europe 2018

19 17 35

51

Art&Design Licensing Source Book

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Welicense license ex existing isting artworks artworks and attract commissions We commissions worldwide. worldwide.

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State Of The Nation: Corporate Happenings

A whole world of art From new signings and collaborations, through to fresh studios and brands making their debut, it’s been a busy start to 2018 for the art licensing world. A&D LSB rounds up a few of the latest happenings.

Caleb Gray swings into spring Caleb Gray Studio is swinging into spring with new art, licensed products and a major giveaway on Instagram to mark over a decade in art licensing.

Following the success of the Beachy Keen and Let Me Entertain You fabric collections, long-time licensing partner Robert Kaufman Fabrics will add new lines this year. First to debut will be ‘Fleurie’ florals in flannel, followed by a sequel to the Eerie Alley Halloween cottons.

Design Design will also use birthday and Christmas designs on punny cards, coasters, napkins and 6-pack beer caddies. Frecklebox will launch more customised gifts, while collaborations with Oopsy Daisy and Walls 360 on decal Above: The Beachy Keen fabric collection lines will continue. has been a success.

Susse Linton builds online showroom Based in Älmhult, Sweden, Susse Linton has established a new online showroom to highlight work from her Susse Collection on a global basis.

The main focus of Susse’s design studio is to create ‘fun, cute’ designs, with her quirky style suiting the baby and tween markets. Over the past six months, she has picked up a number of commissions through social media and, just before Christmas, designed a range of six patterns for a new organic baby Above: Susse’s designs company. are fun and cute.

Susse hopes that the new online showroom will make it easier for art directors and clients to access her portfolio and open up a dialogue.

Susse said: “My future dreams are to design ranges for the stationery and gift markets. It makes me feel so happy to walk into a stationery store; it would be great to see my designs on a stationery range.”

V&A reveals new collabs

Above: Susse’s designs are fun and cute. Eric Sturtevant is a new representation.

Growth for SZL Boutique agency Suzan Lind Art Licensing and Design has added to its growing list of licensees during the first quarter of 2018.

The company has secured deals for each of the four artists that it now represents. To its growing list of licensees, SZL has welcomed Springbok, TCG Toys, Yay Novelty, White Ladybug and Studio E Fabrics.

SZL is also pleased to announce the agency’s new representation of illustrator, Eric Sturtevant of Rhode Island and contemporary artist, Nancy Moore of Connecticut.

Fabric design specialist Arley House has collaborated with the V&A to launch a new range of classic prints for the home.

The V&A Classic Collection features four designs selected from the archive, offered on either a soft rich velvet or classic cotton linen.

Meanwhile, arts and crafts supplier Trimcraft has reinterpreted the diverse collections of the museum into a paperwork collection. The new Trimcraft V&A Papercraft Collection reimagines patterns by artists and designers associated with the Arts and Crafts Movement, held in the V&A archive, and features exquisite papers and crafting accessories.

This year has also seen Samsung Electronics unveil a new V&A Collection on The Samsung Art Store for owners of The Frame TV to enjoy at home. It has selected over 20 works for The Art Store – from classic wallpaper patterns to dramatic Japanese ukiyo- e woodblock prints.

Above: Trimcraft has unveiled its V&A paperwork collection.

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State Of The Nation: Corporate Happenings

Jehane Boden Spiers opens own agency Former co-director of Yellow House, Jehane Boden Spiers has opened her own artists’ agency.

Jehane – who is an artist herself – has over 15 years’ experience as an artists’ agent, having licensed art to clients including Museums & Galleries, The National Trust, The Art File and Tate among others. Her own designs have sold all over the world, with licensees including Penny Black, Medici, Sanderson Fabrics and Gallery Five among others.

Jehane’s roster of clients includes Meghann Rader (with a book deal recently secured), Kate Heiss, Amelia Bowman, Susan Kennewell, and Natalie Pedetti Prack, as well as Jehane’s own designs. Artist Tracey English and leading art brand Snowden Flood have both recently signed up with the company.

On top of this, Jehane exclusively manages the Cressida Bell and Jane Robbins licensed ranges of stationery for Museums & Galleries.

Jehane is supported in her new venture by art agent Emilie Tardivel, who will be developing connections in the French market.

Below: Jehane has 15+ years’ experience as an artists’ agent and also produces her own work.

Welcome to Planet Cat Yellow House is working with Angie Roselaar to develop the Planet Cat Studio brand.

Each of Angie’s illustrations portrays a totally individual cat, with the humour in the designs and the apt quotes giving it wide appeal. The inspiration for the brand came when Angie took up an online challenge to illustrate 100 cats in 100 days.

Yellow House believes the brand has potential in a range of product categories including t-shirts, ceramics and tableware, and it has already received firm interest from several companies.

The Art Group is already on board for a greeting cards range.

Above: Planet Cat has potential in a wide range of categories.

This is Iris on the fast track This is Iris has been busy securing a raft of new partners so far this year.

Following the success of the initial Great Majesco gift and toy line by Robert Frederick, a new activity range is now due to launch. It is also working with Kaiken Entertainment to turn the IP into a picture book series.

The Deer Little Forest brand continues to grow, with Smith Taylor signing for a range of high-end home accessories, while Myne Cards has developed a number of Beryl Cook security cards and collages. Samuel Lamont & Sons is also working on a Beryl Cook range which will complement existing home lines, including Dunoon’s new china mugs.

It has also partnered with a number of international sub agents: Home Made Licensing (France) for Mokoh Designs and The Great Majesco, plus Wild Pumpkin in Australia and New Zealand.

Above: The Great Majesco is being turned into a picture book series.

Ansada teams for scholarship Ansada Licensing Group has announced an annual scholarship established in its name at the Susan K Black Foundation.

Its aim is to support students wishing to further their art education by attending workshops facilitated by the foundation, taught by working artists.

According to Ansada president, Angela Sauro Davis: “Community involvement and the provision of scholarships like this for continuing education is really important and close to my heart. I’ve personally seen what artist workshops can do for new and seasoned artists. It’s a week of intense education, inspiration and energy. Vital information for any artist wishing to bring their craft to the next level.”

Blue Print ready to open doors This year’s Blue Print show will boast 112 studios and artists when it returns to New York in May. The event is once again split into two – the first running from May 17-19 and the second from May 20-22. There will be between 55-65 artists, designers and studios at each show, which is spread over two floors of the Hudson Mercantile in New York.

Exhibitors will come from places as far reaching as Australia, Europe, Canada, Brazil and El Salvador, while buyers from all product categories attend.

Three of the artists at the show have also designed special posters for the event.

Jennifer Orkin Lewis and Harriet Mellow designed NY scenes, while Emma Shonenberg created a poster for Blue Print’s new event in San Francisco which runs from October 2-4.

Left: Special posters have been designed by three artists at the show.

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50 Catalogues available for viewing at:- https://issuu.com/lindawood

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PATTERN DESIGN - WALLART - PHOTOGRAPHY - GREETING CARDS

© linda wood 2018

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Assaf Frank Photography Licensing Best Shot Factory Image Library

Image licensing for wall art, greetings, jigsaws puzzles & products.

Photography commissions

www.bs-factory.com

info@bs-factory.com

+44(0)1276 683123

5 Darrington, Springfield Rd, Camberley, Surrey, GU15 1AB, UK

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State Of The Nation: Photography & Image Art

Photo ready From interior design photography through to images of the highest quality featuring various subjects, this kind of art works well across a raft of licensed product.

By the book Photographer and House Beautiful contributing editor, Karyn Millet has created a new bi-monthly Instagram magazine, which offers a ten-page glimpse at decorating and style trends around a popular design theme.

Karyn selects a ‘favourite room’ for each issue of Krush iMagazine, some of which are from her travels around the world.

“Through my photo shoots, I am lucky enough to collaborate with some of the industry’s most talented individuals,” Karen said.“It is because of them I have something beautiful to capture and I can’t help but want to share it with others.”

In addition, Karyn has also released a book – The Accidental Photographer: Dare to do something different – which is pitched as a visually driven inspirational read and designed to encourage fellow artists.

Above: Karyn’s book is aiming to encourage fellow artists.

Growth for Jennifer Nelson Artists Jennifer Nelson Artists has welcomed new agent, Nanda Rust, who is also a part-time artist specialising in lifestyle photography.

Nanda commented: “Capturing a feeling, a thought or an emotion in a photograph is my joy. I also paint a bit, write books and even make short films. I’m at a great point in life and pleased to be here at Jennifer Nelson Artists.”

The company is also planning to add two more artists to its roster, bringing it to an even dozen.

Above: Jennifer Nelson Artists is looking to add two more artists.

Mary Evans welcomes two Over the past year, Mary Evans Picture Library has licensed the work of leading British wildlife artist and printmaker Robert Gillmor MBE for a range of stationery published by Museums & Galleries, as well as cushions by We Love Cushions.

A new book - Pressing On showcases a further 160 of Robert’s linocuts focusing on the birds, animals and landscape around his home in North Norfolk. A new selection of images from the book will be available for licensing in the near future.

Meanwhile, since its inception in 1908, the Medici Society has been renowned for publishing fine art and classic illustration as prints and cards.

However, this extensive collection, exclusively represented by Mary Evans Picture Library, also includes artwork on seasonal and everyday subjects from the 1950s, 60s and 70s bursting with strong retro appeal. Some of the featured artists among recently added material include Alan Sorrell, Brenda Meredith and early work by Lesley Ann Ivory.

Above: Robert Gillmor’s work will be featured on a range of stationery.

Busy time for Kate Mawdsley It’s been a busy year for Kate Mawdsley with a number of new licences and commissions since Surtex 2017.

Kate is well known for her many cat and dog images which are popular with greetings card companies such as Caspari which continues to publish many of her images. Her work is also popular with ceramics company Dunoon, which has been featuring her artwork for over 20 years.

Kate said: “I like to build a good partnership with companies; it makes creating new work so much easier as I get to understand what sells well for them and also they can add their feedback in order to get it completely right for their customers.”

Above: Kate is well known for her dog and cat images.

On Tour The Tourist is a new 18-strong collection from Claire Louise Creative Studio.

It is taken from founder Claire Hill’s series of watercolour illustrations capturing different cities and cultures around the world. So far, the artwork has been printed onto greeting cards, beauty products and mounted prints.

Claire is now looking to expand her artwork onto homewares, fashion, wall art and gifts.

Above: Claire is looking to further expand product areas for The Tourist collection.

Suzan Lind teams with Springbok Puzzles

Suzan Lind – artist and owner of Suzan Lind Art Licensing and Design - has teamed up with Springbok Puzzles.

Among the images Springbok will be licensing is Suzan’s photographic work, the first of which will be released this summer. Similar to Suzan’s paintings, her ‘photoplay’ imagery draws the viewer in with vivid, happy colours. For example, pictured is a street in Nyhavn, a 17th-century waterfront district in Copenhagen which Suzan visited while touring Scandinavia in summer 2017.

Left: Suzan’s ‘photoplay’ imagery is bright and colourful.

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State Of The Nation: Graphic Art

A pop of colour From big, bold colourful designs through to intricate patterns and f lorals, graphic designs span a wide spectrum.

Above: The Ealing Comedies film posters are among those available through Mary Evans Picture Library.

Movie magic

Catalina Estrada welcomes new partners

Above: The Catalina Estrada brand is continuing to build in the UK with This is Iris on board.

This is Iris is working with Edebé Licensing to build the colourful Catalina Estrada brand in the UK. The first of a new wave of products are now in production, with European partner Setino set to launch over 60 different lines across apparel, bedding, homewares, footwear and accessories, offering both a winter and summer collection. The range was initially

launched in Europe last winter, with This is Iris currently in talks with partners to bring the collection to the UK. Following the initial launch of calendars and diaries through Flame Tree Publishing last year, This is Iris is working closely with partners to develop bespoke Catalina collections, with a new art guide now available.

Wentworth Wooden Puzzles has reaped the rewards of this opportunity, with a series of designs which launched at Spring Fair in February.

The bold and beautiful Designer Sara Berrenson has created a new line of bedding, curtains, bath linens, rugs and kitchen textiles for New Sega Home.

Working primarily in watercolour and gouache, Sara’s style is cheerful and fresh with a feminine flair.

Her collections include vibrant florals, tropical prints and geometrics.

Sara commented:“I use colour as a way to evoke mood and brighten up the day. I would love for my designs to give people a sense of happiness and inspire them to live a colourful life.”

Sara currently also has several licences in home décor including wall art at West Elm, Pottery Barn Kids and Hobby Lobby.

She also has multiple collections of quilting fabric with Camelot, several greeting cards and paper products and soon to be announced launches in rugs and upholstery.

Above: Sara’s designs are being featured on bedding among other products.

New deals bloom for Beth Surface designer Beth Schneider will be showcasing a fresh portfolio of new watercolour florals, patterns and illustrations at the Blue Print Show in New York.

Her unique combinations of modern, on-trend colour palettes paired with her sophisticated hand of watercolour create her clean, fun and fresh signature style. Beth handpaints all of her motifs and then brings them to the computer

Film posters from Studio Canal are now available for licensing through Mary Evans Picture Library.

Posters of iconic British movies such as Brighton Rock, Summer Holiday and the Ealing Comedies are all available through the company through its exclusive representation of the Studio Canal archive.

The historical image source recently added tens of thousands of images from the collection, including a number of Carry On films and Hammer Horror with many available, subject to approval, for licensed products.

to arrange the layout and create repeat patterns.

Clients include American Greetings, Design Design, Fisher-Price, Hobby Lobby and more.

Below: Beth is ready to showcase her new designs at Blueprint.

Lili Graffiti adds to portfolio Canadian-based Lili Graffiti has strengthened its portfolio with a host of new designs and artists for spring 2018.

One of these is Marie-Laure Plano, a French graphic designer living in Montreal, Canada. Marie-Laure says that her illustrations are inspired by the ‘simple pleasures of life’, while the common thread of her illustrations is her ‘naïve, fanciful, colourful, dream universe’.

Her artwork is available for a wide variety of categories including stationery and paper goods, fabric, books, dishes and more.

Above: Marie-Laure says her designs are inspired by the ‘simple pleasures of life’.

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ILLUSTRATION

ART

PATTERN

PAUL THURLBY

GLASGOW MUSEUMS

PLANET CAT

RETRO PHOTOGRAPHY

CHARACTER

JANE ROBBINS

Yellow House Art Licensing

hello@yellowhouseartlicensing.com telephone: +44 (0)1273 705752 tweet us: @yellowhouse_uk Instagram: yellowhouse_uk

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LEADING ARTISTS & ART BRANDS REPRESENTED BY YELLOW HOUSE ART LICENSING

www.yellowhouseartlicensing.com

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State Of The Nation: Contemporary Art

Modern marvels From new techniques being applied to traditional and classic areas, through to technology being used to highlight art in fresh ways, contemporary design has been interpreted in a number of ways recently.

Nancy Moore bags licensing deal Represented by Suzan Lind Art Licensing and Design, Nancy Moore is celebrating 20 years as a professional artist, with her introduction to the licensing world being showcased at Surtex in May. Nancy’s contemporary, figurative watercolours are highly sought after by galleries and museums, and now SZL has secured FLOMO, a national brand specialising in gift accessories to help grow awareness of her work even further.

Nancy’s artwork will grace the surfaces of gift bags, with visitors to the SZL booth (2622) at the Above: Nancy Moore is marking 20 show being able to check them out. years as a professional artist.

Harbouring good thoughts

New duo join MHS MHS Licensing will be showcasing the talents of art brands Jen Montgomery and Jetty Home during Surtex (2626), alongside its existing artist brands.

Jetty Home creator Emily Wood saw a need to bring a modern twist to recognised icons in the home décor world, starting with art prints. Her art focuses on simple yet classic handpainted watercolour and acrylic designs, with her painterly style lending itself well to categories including wall décor, home textiles, stationery and gift items among others.

Emily has also recently added new hand lettering techniques, making collections of typography prints that will bring a little whimsy to home décor.

Meanwhile, inspired by kitsch, botanicals and happy mid-century colour palettes, Jen Montgomery’s range covers hand lettered sentiment, seasonal icons and celebration themes, which are appropriate across multiple categories of consumer products.

Above: Jetty Home and Jen Montgomery will both be on display at Surtex.

Artist Ailsa Black has spent the winter months developing a number of new images for her portfolio.

The latest collection is set around Ailsa’s love of harbours. The colourful scenes showcase a number of well known harbours through the seasons.

The news follows a successful 2017 for Ailsa – who is represented by This is Iris – which saw Apples To Pears launch a range of new home lines including storage tins, placemats, trays, chopping boards and a variety of decorative mugs.

In addition, One Button has launch a new accessory line (including brooches, keyrings, tote bags and purses), while Samuel Lamont & Sons is rolling out tea towels, aprons, oven gloves and shopper bags this summer.

Below: Ailsa Black’s latest work is set around her love of harbours.

Above: The Creative Block range uses a hand printing process called block printing to inspire a repeat pattern

Hello sailor Port and Lemon’s quirky retroinspired imagery combined with a smattering of seaside humour and hand lettering is looking to make the move into licensing.

The move follows success with a witty range of cards which were snapped up by independent gift shops at coastal towns and villages across the country. The company was also commissioned to translate the style into unique designs for the RNLI, The Mary Rose Charity and Toe in the Water charity.

Now, the duo behind Port and Lemon - Kate Cooke and Tracy Evans have grown and diversified their portfolio incorporating more colour and land-based themes, but always maintaining the humour and quirky winks to the past produced in a fresh and contemporary style. Additional styles include graphic, water colour, naïve art, block print and collage and every one of their designs starts life as a hand painted original.

The newest range - Creative Block - draws on their textile design background and uses a hand printing process called block printing to inspire the repeat pattern.

Kate said: “We are really happy with Creative Block as it has given us the chance to play with more colour and create a bold and simple inspired geometric look and we look forward to creating a broad consumer product range from our prints. We think it will work really well on homeware.”

Art&Design Licensing Source Book 17

Nature and Nostalgia at its best...

Daniel Smith

David Mann

Heronim

Greg Alexander

Kim Penner

Jim Daly

Terry Isaac

Representing more than 60 fine artists with over 10,000 images available for your products.

Contact us today for review and availability! www.ansadagroup.com • info@ansadagroup.com 941.758.0924

Booth #2624

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Focus On... May The Thoughts Be With You

It was a brand borne out of turbulent times, but now Charlotte Reed’s May The Thoughts Be With You is a publishing hit and is embarking on a licensing programme thanks to winning BLE’s License This competition.

A&D LSB catches up with Charlotte and her licensing agent, Clare Piggott from Larkshead Media, to find out more.

Positive thinking or Charlotte Reed, a turbulent time in her life has been turned into a positive and thriving business – which is also now helping others who may find themselves in a similar position.

The idea for May The Thoughts Be With You was born in 2008 (see box out for the full story) when Charlotte started to suffer from depression. The positive messages she jotted down to herself every morning eventually became an illustrated book and now after winning Brand Licensing Europe’s License This competition in 2016 – is taking its first steps into the world of licensing.

Charlotte explains to A&D LSB:“After May The Thoughts Be With You was taken on by a traditional publisher I wanted to start producing merchandise based on the book, but

F

had no idea how to do it. A friend told me about BLE and that I should visit to try and make contact with licensees.”

Charlotte filled out the application form for License This on her iPhone inbetween serving customers on her stall at Portobello Market, narrowly making the closing deadline.“I thought that my entry wouldn't be good enough so was ecstatic to find out I'd been

Left: Charlotte – pictured with singer and actress Natalie Imbruglia – began writing down positive messages when she was suffering from depression.

selected as a finalist. On the day of the competition I thought there was no chance I'd win as the other finalists were all very strong, so I was utterly overwhelmed to have my name called out as the winner,” Charlotte admits.“It was a totally magical moment and a real confidence boost.”

As well as a stand at BLE the following year, Charlotte also won herself a licensing agent that day.

Clare Piggott, director of licensing and merchandising at Larkshead Media, was one of the License This judges and immediately felt there was a place for May The Thoughts Be With You on a consumer products level.

Clare tells A&D LSB:“The way Charlotte described her journey and how she came to create May The Thoughts Be With You was very compelling to me. Also commercially I felt there was a place in the market for a brand that embraces positive thoughts to support challenging/changing situations in life.

“Life sometimes throws us a curve ball and Charlotte's brand is about saying I see the curve ball coming at you but I'm here to support you. Charlotte's brand also segments into two areas that are both applicable for really strong licensing product development namely character based sentiments (because everyone knows a Happy Hippie or a Shoeless Guru), but

Right: Danilo is the first licensee on board with Larkshead Media targeting a range of other categories.

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Discover new partnerships at Brand Licensing Europe 2018 9 – 11 October 2018, Olympia London

Find out more about exhibiting at brandlicensing.eu Sponsored by

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Organised by

*According to the 2017 LIMA licensing report

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Focus On... May The Thoughts Be With You

Charlotte’s story “Back in 2008 I started to suffer from depression,” Charlotte explains. “Things got pretty bad but I was adamant I didn't want to take medication. Instead I tried other things like CBT, psychotherapy and acupuncture. I also completely changed my diet and started exercising.

“It was at this time that I had the idea to write a little positive message to myself every morning to try and change my outlook on life. I suffered with the depression for two years so by the time I'd recovered I'd written loads of thoughts.

“That's when my friends urged me to turn my messages into a book- so I did! I realised the book would look a lot more appealing if the thoughts had illustrated characters to go with them, but I couldn't afford an illustrator so I had to create them myself. It was a great learning experience having no training whatsoever.”

Charlotte continues: “I called the book May The Thoughts Be With You and when it was ready unfortunately every publisher I sent it to turned it down. That's when I had the idea to self-publish and sell it myself from a stall at Portobello Road Market.

It was incredible - books literally flew off my table and before I knew it I'd sold thousands of copies and had a large following including celebrities, royalty and MPs! I was over the moon.

“Soon after that I was approached by a global publisher and offered a worldwide publishing deal. Off the back of that I had a positive thinking column in Metro for a year and now have a weekly column in The Evening Standard featuring my thoughts and illustrations.”

also art and design-based illustrations.

This makes for potentially a broad retail distribution base.”

Danilo is already on board for greeting cards and calendars – with its range launching to the trade at Spring Fair back in February and hitting retail later this year. Clare is also targeting paper products, gifting, softlines, health and beauty, home décor and healthy eating.

The wider implications of the growing awareness of the brand are also becoming clear. Off the back of her worldwide publishing deal, Charlotte had a positive thinking column in the Metro newspaper for a year and now Below and right: The Shoeless Guru and The Happy Hippy are two of Charlotte’s popular characters which impart words of wisdom.

writes a weekly column in The Evening Standard (which is set to run indefinitely) featuring her thoughts and illustrations.

She continues:“Last year, The Evening Standard ran my positive thinking column every day through Mental Health Awareness Week to acknowledge the event, and this will be happening again this year.”

Mental Health Awareness Week runs from May 14-20, but Charlotte raises awareness about mental health all year round, giving talks and partnering with mental health charities.

She is now working on her next book and announcements are also due in the publishing category shortly. From a licensing point of view, May The Thoughts Be With You will return to Brand Licensing Europe this year on the Larkshead Media stand. Charlotte will be coming along in support and will also be creating some bespoke artwork for the stand.

So what advice would Charlotte give to other people who may have artwork, illustrations and designs and are looking to build them into a brand?

She says:“Definitely attend BLE 2018 and also enter the License This competition. It has been a turning point for my brand. Also it's worth investing in a good style guide with a recommended designer like I did with Smart Design Studio.

Above and above left: Charlotte turned her positive messages into a book, which she sold from her stall in Portobello Market.

“Ensure you get good guidance on building a commercially resonant style guide, have a strong brand plan developed by a licensing expert and be clear on your ambitions for your brand.”

Charlotte has clear aims for where she would like to take the brand longer term, too. She concludes:“I'd like to grow global recognition for May The Thoughts Be With You and also raise further awareness about depression and mental health. I want to continue to engage my audience with new thoughts, illustrations and characters, and even start to animate my work.”

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Surtex 2018

Design for Life Inset: Last year’s Surtex New York show was a pivotal event in the art licensing calendar, and this year is shaping up to be just as important

Surtex might be billed as the leading global marketplace to source original art, design and pattern work, but its reach and reputation extend far beyond this. Surtex is the place where creative minds dare to dream, where art and design licensing deals are made and where the great and the good from across the industry meet and network to inspiring effect. Art & Design LSB takes a closer look at this year’s three-day event. f you’re looking for a simple yet effective way to sum up the secret to the success of legendary art and design licensing show Surtex, secondtime exhibitor and artist Amarilys Henderson has it in a nutshell.

“The message of the show is that possibilities lie ahead,” says Amarilys, from company Watercolor Devo, who can be found at Booth 2646 at the Jakob K. Javits Convention Centre when this year’s show opens on May 20 on West 34th Street.

“As you walk into the convention centre you are greeted by long glass walls that lead your eyes up to the ceiling of the foyer. It’s this location, the show’s proud history and the fact that it’s being held in New York – the city known for being the centre for America’s art and business advances – that are all key to Surtex’s prestige.”

I

Show Stats Surtex 2018 Where: Jacob K. Javits Convention Centre, New York When: May 20-22, 2018 Web: www.surtex.com favourite places – making Surtex an easy yes for years to come.”

Amarilys is one of around 200 exhibitors from across the industry, including artists, design studios and art and licensing agencies, who will be attending Surtex this year, with about 40% of those heading to the Big Apple for the show for the first time. And with more than a quarter of these hailing from outside the US, Surtex really does deserve its global reputation.

Each year in excess of 4,500 visitors – manufacturers, retailers, licensees and buyers among them – attend the show to get their hands on some of the best and most innovative art and design around. Artwork and patterns are after all everywhere in today’s modern, visuallydriven society, from bed linen to stationery, fashion accessories to wall Below: Artist Amarilys Henderson loved her experience at last year’s show where she exhibited as part of the Design District

Last year Amarilys showcased her work in the Design District, which features first time exhibitors and a host of fresh art talent, and by the second day of the show knew she would be coming back.

“We had filled our little black book of contacts thanks to a steady influx of new faces and exciting opportunities,” she reveals.“It also doesn’t hurt that New York is full of creative energy and one of my

Trend Theatre Surtex’s Trend Theatre is showcased within ‘The Boulevard’ – a special show area that connects Surtex with the National Stationery Show.

“The Theatre schedule includes industry experts, thought leaders and trend spotters,” says show director Randi Mohr. “Topics include the use of vintage and antique textiles for inspiration, products with personality and the impact millennials are having on product designs and brands.

“I’m especially looking forward to ‘It’s Now a Millennial World,’ which looks at how millennials are spurring the home textiles companies to transform and attract their business, and a session by Steve Greenberg and Chris Moore discussing digital technology in design.”

For a full schedule visit: https://www.surtex.com/show/trend-theatre/

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Surtex 2018

Above: Amarilys’ work, including these beautiful florals, is inspired by a wide range of things Above right: MHS Licensing will be showcasing the work of new signing Jen Montgomery at this year’s Surtex.

whether you’re new to it or an established hand.”

Show features include the previously coverings. And if you’ve seen something mentioned Atelier sector, first launched with a beautiful design on it, there’s a very back in 2013, which is effectively a huge good chance that the business deal that textile design studio where forwardconceived it was dreamed up at Surtex. thinking surface designers meet Surtex show director Randi Mohr, who manufacturers and licensees. is also vice president of show organiser There’s also the Design District for artists Emerald Expositions, has been working in and agencies attending for the first time, the trade show business for 15 years and the Art & Brand Licensing Forum and the directly on this event since June 2017.

Trend Theatre, which will play host to an She says that Surtex, which is now in its inspiring programme of 30-minute flash 32nd year, having launched back in 1986, talks from industry experts. continues to evolve as a show alongside In addition, Surtex takes place art and design styles. alongside the National Stationery Show “Surtex is a destination for both and the ICFF luxury furniture fair, with established and emerging artists and The Boulevard area connecting Surtex designers,” Randi tells A&D LSB.“This adds and the stationery show and providing up to an expanded breadth of design the new home for the shared shows’ styles on display. For example, we see theatre, trend focused programming, the watercolour continuing to be popular social media lounge and this year but also anticipate seeing more demonstrations. contemporary designs, bolder prints and Amarilys Henderson says the benefits patterns, colours, geometrics and very for attending the show are really too dark and edgy designs featuring fire. numerous to mention.“I exhibit at Surtex “This year in particular we welcome the to make connections with future clients participation of artists and designers from that I otherwise would not meet. Nothing all over the States as well as from around quite meets the the world.

Taking a effectiveness of face-to“Surtex continues to be the Global Stand face meetings and largest licensing forum in New This year, in addition to listening to clients’ needs, York City for those seeking the exhibiting artists and designers from the States, those insights are so latest prints, patterns and those also showcasing invaluable. Surtex is also a design services for their their work come from 13 great motivator to create product development needs other countries. new work to show as well. and also art and designs for These include: Argentina, “My work had actually purchase in our ‘Atelier’ section. Australia, Canada, Chile, attended the show before “Surtex is the only forum that China, Columbia, France, Italy, Japan, South Korea, I did as I was represented brings all facets of the industry Poland, Spain and the UK. by an agency for three together in one place –

years, but there’s nothing like hopping on an aeroplane to meet several new contacts within a few days.

“This year I’m also looking forward to meeting fellow exhibitors – illustration buddies that I’ve crossed with online. And I’m also eager to see it all come together as I have prepared for Surtex over months and I hope my corner booth will provide a thrilling visual jolt for those passing by.”

Meanwhile MHS Licensing will be showcasing the talents of two new art signings, Jen Montgomery and Jetty Home (booth 2626) for the first time.

MHS is one of America’s leading licensing and art consulting agencies and collectively the art properties it represents generates more than £85m in annual sales through licensee partners.

Jen Montgomery is a multi-disciplinary artist whose range includes hand-lettered sentiment, seasonal icons and celebration themes, while Jetty Home’s brand creator Emily Wood launched it back in 2014 after seeing a gap in the market for Below: Around 200 exhibitors are expected to attend this year’s show, hailing from America and 13 other countries besides.

bringing a:‘modern twist to recognised icons in the home décor world starting with art prints.’

Marty Segelbaum, president of MHS, says:“We understand that finding new talent and trends is top of mind for our licensing partners at Surtex. It’s crucial that we not only have new content from our proven art brands, but more importantly new and untapped artists to offer. We’re confident that at this year’s show these talented additions to our client portfolio will open their eyes to fresh new ideas.” *For more information visit: www.surtex.com Art&Design Licensing Source Book 27

O M

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Surtex 2018

Tapping into America’s art nostalgia

Signature and seasonal for Giordano studios Giordano Studios has been combining innovative design work and retail success for almost 40 years, and are again looking forward to exhibiting this year at Surtex.

The company, which is celebrating 38 years in the art industry, will showcase its signature designs of puppies and kittens in New York alongside traditional, seasonal illustrations that translate perfectly to a variety of products.

New for 2018 is Giordano’s Fireside Pups collection, which is already proving popular on puzzles and greeting cards. And building on this initial success, Giordano Studios now plan on expanding the line into pictorials that could work all year round. www.giordanostudios.com

As well as continuing to work with his family’s art licensing company, Giordano Studios, Greg Giordano enjoyed huge standalone success last year.

By continuing to adapt his art styles and subject matter, Above: Greg Giordano will exhibit his Greg has now expanded his licensing Nostalgic America collection among others. partners to more than 50 licensees worldwide with sales of licensed products featuring his designs up by more than 30%.

His hugely successful Nostalgic America collection features vintage automotive subjects in classic settings, and has been used on products as varied as jigsaw puzzles, mugs, wall décor and craft equipment.

In addition, Greg’s Heartland America collection includes vintage pick-up trucks and tractors, with licensed product ranging from calendars to coasters to greeting cards. www.greggiordanoart.com Booth: 2616

Booth: 2616 Above: Giordano Studios will showcase its new ‘FireSide Pups’ collection at Surtex.

Catching fire with contemporary design Artist Michael Stewart, also known by his creative ‘alter ego’ Pyro Painter, is making his debut at this year’s show bringing with him his very unique style of work.

Michael creates pieces by using real fire that he photographs and then digitally manipulates, making for some very eye-catching and original artworks.

“I’ve heard great things about Surtex,” he says. “As far as the licensing industry goes, New York is one of the top cities in the US for companies in this field. And since Surtex is in Above: Artist Michael Stewart’s the heart of New York attending original fire-inspired pieces are very on trend this year is a great opportunity for me.

“I’m looking forward to being a part of this year’s Design District.” www.pyropainter.com Booth: 2406 .

Above: Artist Kim Davidson has just branched out into textile and surface pattern design.

Twice the creative inspiration Kim Davidson Designs is making its debut at this year’s Surtex show – alongside sister company Gifty Idea.

Kim Davidson has actually been licensing dog and catinspired photography for more than 14 years, but has now added textile and surface pattern design to her set of skills.

“I learned of Surtex years back when I was a greeting card manufacturer and exhibited at the National Stationery Show,” she says. “I have many colleagues who already showcase their work at Surtex and only have good things to say about it.”

It seems fitting then that Kim’s creative palette of patterns and designs will make their debut amongst the buyers at Surtex, and are she says a perfect fit for clothing, home décor, accessories, gifts and more. www.kimdavidsondesigns.com Booth: 2536

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Surtex 2018

A burst of butterflies and florals Artist Suzan Lind will exhibit at Surtex for the seventh time in 2018 – but this year also marks her first as an official boutique art licensing agency.

Based in the New York metro area, SZL now offers more than a thousand images and patterns, combining Above: Suzan’s latest work is inspired her own pieces with a by vibrant f lorals and butterf lies. broad range of talent.

And besides new names on her books, this year’s show will also play host to Suzan’s newest work – a mixture of vivid florals, butterflies and photoplay images.

“I like to save my newest pieces for the companies who make the trek to Surtex,” Suzan says. “They deserve a first look and I hope to ‘wow’ them this May! “I’m also super excited this year to showcase the fantastic work of SZL artists, and I’m proud to say that each of them now has licensed properties with deals signed first quarter, 2018.”

The SZL stable includes character illustrations by Eric Sturtevant, contemporary figurative watercolours by Nancy Moore, mehindi art

by Bhavna Naik and watercolour and oil scenes and florals by Kala of Norway. www.suzanlindartlicensing.com

Cute, quirky, colourful – and charming When graphic designer and illustrator Juliana Duque isn’t working hard at her ‘day job’ she likes to make what she describes as “happy little doodles” for her daughter – which is how her company Kawanimals was born.

Juliana’s designs are inspired by Japanese kawaii illustration. “The characters I dream up are cute and quirky creatures that live in a simple, colourful world,” the Bogotábased artist explains.

This year Juliana will exhibit for the first time in Surtex’s Design District amidst a host of fresh talent. She says she hopes to find the experience useful for networking, doing licensing deals and bringing her artwork to a new, global audience.

“I’m looking forward to everything about the show,” Juliana says. “But being a first timer, putting my work out there and seeing how the world reacts to my designs? It’s both exciting and scary.” www.julianaduque.com Booth: 2756 Left: Juliana Duque’s ‘Kawanimals’ characters are inspired by a form of Japanese illustration.

Booth: 2622

A myriad of different talents The power of ten Jennifer Nelson first knew she wanted to work in the art field at the age of 12, and having started out as a graphic designer now runs a successful licensing agency representing the work of ten talented artists.

This year Jennifer will attend the show with the company’s new licensing agent Nanda Rust and the agency’s artists – all eager to be at the show either in person or represented by their art. They are: Janna Krupinksi, Rae Ritchie, Kelly Angelovic, Bee Brown, Jennifer Orkin Lewis, Anisa Makhoul, Miriam Bos, Rachel Grant, Jill Howarth and Lauren Lowen.

The agency will be showcasing new work in popular seasonal categories, art ideal for greetings products, plus butterflies, bugs, repeat patterns and placement imagery.

“I think visitors to our booth will also be inspired by our smart, strong women images, our sloths, tropical birds and woodland animals, as well as some of the world’s best hand lettering,” Jennifer says. www.jennifer-nelsonartists.com Booth: 2546 Left: One of agent Jennifer Nelson’s artists is Janna Krupinski.

Kathleen Kelly says she has been passionate about colour, texture, imagery and creativity since childhood – but her artistic passion also takes many different forms.

She is a knit fabric designer for the bedding industry, a freelance graphic designer and photographer, has just entered the field of art licensing, and is set to debut her Kathleen Kelly Creative collection at Surtex this year.

“I have been dreaming about exhibiting at Surtex for years and finally decided this year was the year,” she says. “I’m eager to officially enter the marketplace and introduce myself and my art to the world.

“Surtex has such a great reputation because it draws artists from many backgrounds across all media and houses them under one roof for manufacturers and purchasers to seek out.

“As a debut exhibitor I’m looking forward to the public’s response to me and my style – and also to connecting with other artists as well as manufacturers, buyers and beyond.” www.kathleenkellycreative.co Booth: 2446 Above: Kathleen has drawn inspiration from many musicians, including Jimi Hendrix.

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Surtex 2018

Veteran exhibitor, continued success

Sideline to centre stage

British artist Kate Mawdsley will cross the pond this May to return to Surtex for her 27th year.

Last year’s art licensing extravaganza was a big success for Kate with new projects commissioned by new and existing customers, including a new cat collection for quilting company Henry Glass.

“The new range for Henry Glass was really great to do, and cats and dogs have always been a big part of my business,” Kate says. “I love both, but currently have a black cat called Rudolph who features in many new Halloween designs that I’ll be launching this year” Kate’s artwork has Above: Kate Mawdsley’s black cat Rudolph been licensed features in some of her beautiful artwork. worldwide on numerous products from greetings cards to mugs.

Graphic designer and newbie to the art licensing world, Amanda Brady has long been inspired to make patterns ‘on the side’ – but apart from posting them on social media they remained unused.

However, this year the Northern Colorado native has decided to take the Above: Amanda will be showcasing her leap and focus full time on pattern designs at Surtex for the first time. illustration and surface design, working under the company name Green Hound Press. She’ll be exhibiting as part of Surtex’s Design District.

“I’ve heard so many wonderful things about Surtex, which is why I decided to make it my first trade show,” Amanda says. “I’m excited to break into the licensing world and this seems the perfect place to do that.” www.greenhoundpress.com Booth: 2460

www.katemawdsley.com Booth: 2541

Design talent Down Under Sydney-based licensing agency ArtSHINE was founded more than five years ago and now represents a diverse range of Australian creative professionals.

This is the company’s first Surtex show and founders Vinh Van Lam and Stuart Horrex say they’re hugely excited to be bringing the work of over 25 artists to New York, covering a broad range of potential product collaborations – from paper products to wall coverings to housewares.

“At ArtSHINE our mission is to help as many artists as possible to build a sustainable art Above: ArtSHINE is showcasing more than 25 practice,” Vinh says. artists at Surtex, including Gabby Malpas.

“Putting them on an international stage like Surtex gives them that opportunity to shine.

“We feel so proud and privileged to represent such an inspiring and diverse group of Australian licensing artists. And we’re so excited to be bringing them to Surtex.” www.artshinelicensing.com Booth: 2522

Above: Members of Pattern Observer’s Textile Design Lab can’t wait to show their work at Surtex.

A pattern for living Making its debut at this year’s Surtex, Pattern Observer is a leading online resource for textile and surface pattern designers.

With an active community of designers and art buyers, it made complete sense for the group to present work created by members as part of Pattern Observer’s Textile Design Lab at Surtex.

Michelle Fifis, founder of Pattern Observer and the Textile Design Lab, says: “What makes presenting the work of Textile Design Lab members most exciting is that we are a tight-knit design community where members are continually improving their craft, learning new techniques, staying informed of the most up-to-date styles, and making their artwork more profitable.”

For those interested in purchasing work or looking for licensed product, Pattern Observer Studio also has an online library of patterns available to interested parties. The library is available at: www.patternobserver.com Booth: 2846

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I N S P I R E artlicensingltd DESIGN LICENSING STUDIO RESOURCE

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Patrick Groombridge t: 0 (44) 115 970 4880 cell: 0 (44) 7528 519463 e: patrick@inspireartlicensing.com w: www.inspireartlicensing.com 3 Wycliffe Mill, Wycliffe Street, Nottingham, England, NG7 7JB

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AGENCY FOCUS: Artshine Inset: Artist Gabby Malpas’ work has been featured on a range of products.

Shine on eaded up by Vinh Van Lam and Stuart Horrex, ArtSHINE industries launched its licensing division eight years ago and now represents a wide range of artists, designers and creative industry professionals.

Based in Australia, the company’s roster of clients are skilled in a host of disciplines, Vinh explains to A&D LSB, from apparel fabric, children's merchandise, craft and hobby, decorative accessories, home furnishings and textiles, packaging, paper products, publishing, as well as fashion, greeting cards, tabletop/housewares, wall decor, wall coverings and giftware.

In addition to this, it also represents comic artists who are currently licensing their characters to game studios for use in video games.

“Licensing is a natural progression for us and a key part of our work to create sustainable incomes for the commercial ready artists, designers and creative industry professionals we work with,” Vinh explains.

The company will be bringing 25 licensing artists to Surtex in May, with Vinh saying that it is “time to take our ArtSHINE licensing artists to the next level.”

H

He continues:“By putting them on an international stage like Surtex provides an opportunity to shine on a much larger scale. We feel so proud and privileged to represent such an inspiring and diverse group of Australian licensing artists. And we’re so excited to be bringing them to Surtex for the first time.”

Vinh is very clear on his aims for the business in 2018, outlining a number of things to A&D LSB that he would like to achieve.

Above left: Sillier Than Sally is popular on Facebook and Instagram.

Above right:Carrie Webster’s art on a children’s book published by Little Steps Publisher.

Firstly, the company is launching its new online platform – ArtSHINElicensing.com – in time for Surtex. The platform has been created as a curated collection of highly skilled artists and designers exclusively available to licensees seeking new

Based in Australia and boasting a healthy roster of artists and designers, ArtSHINE is heading to Surtex with the aim of expanding its business and the opportunities for its clients even further.

A&D LSB catches up with co-founder Vinh Van Lam to find out more properties.“It’s where we can connect in one virtual location and explore exclusively licensed art and designs,” explains Vinh.

While the company is at Surtex, it will also be using it as an opportunity to identify and recruit new licensing artists, as well as connecting its existing clients to suitable licensees, manufacturers and art directors.

It is also keen for its licensing artists to learn more about the industry. Vinh adds:“For our ArtSHINE licensing artists there’s a wonderful opportunity to learn more about the industry, and access creative briefs from manufacturers and art directors, attend seminars and workshops and connect with other artists and licensees from all over the world.”

Developing and refining a signature style is among the key pieces of advice that Vinh would give to new artists looking to expand into business – and he’s confident that ArtSHINE is well placed to help them.

Vinh concludes:“We’re always seeking to work with new licensees and new licensing artist partners. That’s why, five years ago ArtSHINE launched a project called ‘Quirks’ to discover and present fresh new talent with a unique art, craft, style or technique.”

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In Conversation With: The Bright Agency

Inset: American artist Becca Stadtlander now works across Bright’s different divisions, and is one of the New York office’s most coveted creatives.

The Future’s Bright Bright Art Licensing’s outlook as one of the most progressive agencies in the industry is to think big and broad when it comes to opportunities for the artists on its books, so it helps that agency director Hannah Curtis is the very definition of an ideas person. Art & Design LSB speaks to Hannah to find out more. small yet perfectly formed team with big ideas. If you were to coin a catchphrase that perfectly sums up the power and reach of The Bright Agency, it would read something like this.

This year Bright, founded by

A

its managing director Vicki WilldenLebrecht when she was just 23, celebrates 15 years in the business and is marking the anniversary with a year-long programme of events, including a big party at March’s Bologna Licensing Trade Fair and another to follow in New York later in the year.

But this important calendar marker has also frankly been highlighted by the agency’s enviable organic growth, expansion into new territories, the launch of its new design-focused Left: Becca Stadtlander's varied work for Bright includes producing beautiful book covers.

illustration division and the launch of an exciting, integrated new website that has been 18 months in the building. To put it simply Bright, as it always does, is letting its business brain do the talking.

A person who knows this only too well is newly appointed agency

Trade Show Shift This year Bright won’t be exhibiting at Surtex in New York - although Hannah will be visiting - but did travel to Spring Fair in February and will be at PG Live.

“PG Live is always a pivotal show for us,” says Hannah. “But generally I think there has been a shift when it comes to the importance of trade shows.

“We are now living in such a digital age with everything available online, that this has taken something of a precedent.

“At Bright we’re always proactive about talking to our artists and seeing them regularly anyway. Trade shows can be useful in terms of getting artists to refresh their portfolios, but we’re always sending out trend and industry information – sometimes every hour, so the artists on our books constantly have a fresh attitude to work.”

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In Conversation With: The Bright Agency

Above: Bright’s newly-appointed agency director Hannah Curtis has been with the company for eight years

director Hannah Curtis, who has risen to this role during eight highly successful years at Bright. Her fellow new directors at Bright are Arabella Stein, who previously worked at Pan Mac, Bloomsbury and Abner Stein, and Eamonn O’Domhnaill, who has worked in publishing for over 20 years.

Hannah began her personal journey into the world of art licensing at Reading University where she graduated with a degree in Fine Art. She then worked for an abstract artist, selling his paintings and organising and marketing his exhibitions, before moving to an art licensing agency 12 years ago, and then Bright.

She lives and breathes

the art licensing world with her expertise and opinion highly coveted.

In fact last year Hannah was approached about sitting on the judging panel for the second annual New Designers graduate show, which takes place on July 5 and features graphics and illustrations students.

“At Bright we work with a wealth of different artists – some vastly experienced and others recent graduates,” Hannah says.

“We get a lot of submissions but also approach new artists, attend all major grad shows and have been offering portfolio reviews at New Designers for years. Scouting for top talent at that grass roots level really takes me back to where my career began.

“My artistic talent now comes out as creative direction.”

Bright has several divisions, including Art Licensing which provides both artwork and illustrations from a huge existing portfolio, and works with clients to commission pieces from artists on the books to meet a broad range of image needs across the

greetings, stationery, home and gift and wall art sectors. Hannah says there is more demand for commissions now.

“The industry has changed a lot over the years and a lot of greetings and stationery companies now have big in-house design teams,” she explains.

“People may come to us for one or two images and then either request more or realise that they like the style of a particular artist and we might then work with them to create an exclusive range based upon that.

“A recent example of this is a successful collaboration between one of our artists Jane Newland and a high end publisher on a greetings and stationery range to be published later this year.”

Bright’s other divisions include a very well-established literary agency and dedicated children’s illustration team, as well as the newly-launched Bright Illustration, which offers the agency’s artists the opportunity to work within advertising, editorial, packaging and character design, to name a few.

Hannah personally heads up Bright Illustration and Art Licensing.

Bright’s general ethos as an agency is to think big and broad, with artists on the books who may have specialised in one area of art or illustration to date now crossing over divisions to explore a myriad of other opportunities as well.

Talent with a Business Brain One of Bright’s most requested and successful artists is Jane Newland, who works across all of three of their divisions, with publishing clients including: Usborne, Harper Collins, Templar, Egmont and Caterpillar.

Breathe Magazine contacted Hannah last year to request one of Jane’s inspiring pieces to grace their front cover, and her work has been made into everything from umbrellas to bedding.

“When Bright asked me which division I’d like to work in, I said all of them please!” Jane reveals.“I love the variety – I’ve been working on books, creating personal work for licensing and working to commission. I’m learning loads and it’s helping to keep things fresh.

“It’s also meant that I’ve had a constant flow of work, which is fantastic!”

Above and right: Jane Newland has proved to be one of Bright’s most commercial artists

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In Conversation With: The Bright Agency

The agency has offices in London’s Battersea and Manhattan, with a staff of more than 25.

The New York base, established in 2014, has certainly increased the agency’s flexibility between the two territories meaning they can showcase artists to both UK and US client bases.

The New York five-strong team is now focused very much on the agency’s American artists and servicing US clients, with one high flyer for Bright being Becca Stadtlander, who started off as a picture book artist but now does loads of licensing work, including designing pieces for shops including Anthropologie.

So what would Hannah say sets Bright apart? “Our relationship with artists is key to everything we do,” she says. “We pride ourselves on nurturing them, giving them opportunities and allowing them to thrive as creatives.

We work closely with them to develop their portfolios and offer regular trend advice on everything from colours to the current political climate. This means both we as an agency and our artists are constantly ahead of the game.”

The agency now represents more than 350 artists, having grown substantially over the past 12 months, providing work for thousands of different clients. The artists on their books come from all over the world, with many based in Europe, South America and China.

“There’s a big market in publishing right now for Chinese art, and we have recently taken on new graduate Viola Wang who was born in China but has lived in the UK for the past decade,” Hannah says.

“Personally I was immediately blown away by Viola’s bold and dynamic artwork and am thrilled to have such a fresh and exciting talent join Bright.”

Viola worked for ten years as a graphic designer, before going on to complete her Children’s Book Illustration MA at Cambridge School of Art where she won the Sebastian Walker Award.

“Bright has the vision to think about what best ways there are to get our artists seen,” Hannah says. “We are absolutely a small team with big ideas, and although we’ve grown steadily people think we’re much bigger than we are which speaks

Above: Artist graduate Viola Wang is one of Bright’s new signings

volumes about the impact we have for both artists and clients.

“I think Bright has thrived because we’re personable and incredibly specialised at what we do. We’re progressive and we think outside the box.” www.thebrightagency.com

Talking To Consumers In 2015 the agency opened The Bright Emporium in the ground floor space of its offices in London’s St John’s Hill. The multi-faceted space is used for everything from book launches to popular events for the local community, such as ‘Storytime Sundays’ where one of Bright’s illustrators read their books to children – but the idea behind them all and the venue itself is to establish a direct link between artists and the consumer.

“It’s all about increasing discoverability for our artists,” Hannah explains. “At Bright we think dialogue targeted at consumers themselves is crucial, and it really is quite a unique ambition for us as an agency.

“The Emporium is a very beautiful, eye-catching and creative space and we also use it to stock and showcase licensed product from our artists alongside their children’s books.” www.thebrightemporium.com Left: The Bright Emporium has only been open for three years but is brilliant in terms of raising the profile of artists

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This is Iris Licensing We work alongside a variety of established artists and IP developers to extend their ever growing international licensing programs.

For more information say hello@thisisiris.co.uk or visit www.thisisiris.co.uk Š2018 This is Iris. www.thisisiris.co.uk

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Art Focus: Agency Feeback

The art of the deal Art agencies hold a key role in the licensing industry, showcasing the work of artists on their books to as broad and hungry an audience as possible. Keeping an eye on the latest trends and being one step ahead of the curve are key attributes when it comes to making sure they get the best for their clients and partners.

A&D LSB spoke to some well-known names to find out more.

Richard Patey, founder of Pure Illustration “Pure Illustration has been extremely busy so far this year. In fact, the past few months are up 50% on the same time last year and we feel that there is a real swing toward publishers and Above: The company has been extremely busy so far this year, says Richard.

Left: Deva Evans is part of Pure Illustration’s current portfolio.

Hannah Curtis, agency director of Bright Art Licensing “2018 has been busy and thriving so far!

This year Bright celebrates its 15th anniversary as an innovative art agency, with a brand new website and launch of a new division, Bright Illustration. Setting up Bright Illustration was an organic response to the demand for artwork with a communicative focus; finding elegant, creative solutions for advertising, editorial, branding, packaging and character design projects, it sits beside our Bright Art Licensing division.

Design trends, technology and lifestyle focuses are constantly in flux, alternately challenging and complementing one another, which naturally has some impact upon the type of artwork that our clients request.

Emphasising the ‘human’ in the creative process and constructing a sense of a physical connection between artists and

manufacturers seeing the value in artwork from outside their own design teams.

Our sales of illustration for greeting cards and other gift products are improving across the board. The past few years have been tough, but we’re seeing many more companies requiring original artwork for their products, packaging and publications.

Customers seem to be able to handle digitally created artwork themselves.

When they come to Pure Illustration they are looking for hand rendered imagery that has been created with easily layer manipulation in mind.

When it comes to trends, firstly, we hope that the market for freelance artwork

consumers, we are seeing a particular interest in painterly designs that visibly demonstrate the performance of their creation with brushstrokes and other mark-making techniques. Uplifting and gently humorous design - whether beautifully hand-lettered mots justes across a dreamy colour wash background, sundrenched seaside landscapes, or little snapshot moments of relaxation and silliness - is very frequently requested as we all look for ways to combat a gloomy outlook, whether a micro or macro one!

The capacity for art to translate across a variety of media platforms is also dictating a demand for design created by or incorporating digital processes, while a surging popularity in the greeting card sector for the use of multiple finishes and

continues to grow. Freelance artists have the privilege of not being tied to the very commercial type of artwork that an inhouse design team is restricted to and so the work we licence is freer and more creative.

We believe that the general public are enjoying the variety of illustration that they see in the shops right now and we feel that they will increase their demand for original art and design in the next few years.

Trends are hard to pin down but we think we’ll be seeing more swans, parrots, toucans, flamingos, whales, leaves, typography, space and stars in the coming few months.”

Left: Bright is celebrating its 15th anniversary this year, says Hannah Above: Libby Burns is one of Bright’s current artists.

embellishments is, to some extent, informing the aesthetic and technical ‘construction’ of design to accommodate increasingly complex production requirements.

In terms of long-term trends, as well as natural forms continuing to feature heavily in design (although perhaps seeing the tropical trend evolve to embrace more scientific, botanical themes), we are expecting to see the activist spirit emerge with the use of sustainable materials and clever, politicised design as a call to action.”

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31 Pembridge Road, Bovingdon, Herts. HP3 0QN t: 01442 833 458 e: info@portfolioselect.co.uk

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LICENSEE SPOTLIGHT: Neviti

Trade Show Trend Spotters! ‘hotbed of design resource’ is how Neviti’s Tracey Cooper neatly describes her personal annual Surtex experience, and what it means for the visionary party products company she co-founded more than a decade ago.

After all Tracey has carefully built a brand that manufactures and sells to the trade everything you need in terms of wedding and party supplies, and Neviti’s connection to its ever-growing customer base is nothing if not linked to cutting-edge, original and eyecatching art and pattern work and imagery.

So New York’s famed art and design licensing show is naturally essential viewing for a company director such as Tracey who recognises the importance of staying ahead of the trends and constantly being able to dream up innovative celebration ranges that can be used for everything from birthdays to gender reveal baby parties.

“I make the trip to Surtex each year as a trend-spotting exercise,” Tracey tells Art & Design LSB. “It’s great to be surrounded by creative people and getting out of the office for a few days does really help to clear your head and give you time to plan for the season ahead.

“Staying ahead of the curve in terms of emerging trends and new designers is not something I can do from the office, it does require travel! And while there are several shows with art

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When inspiring design and imagery is at the centre of everything you do, boarding a plane to the Big Apple to attend Surtex is top of the business list – as Neviti founder and director Tracey Cooper knows only too well…

Above: Neviti’s Pattern Works range uses spots and chevrons to striking design effect.

Below: The party specialists’ Scripted Marble range has been a best-seller in the first few months of the year

licensing sections I do find Surtex is the Mecca, each year offering a wealth of both new and existing artists and agencies to engage with.”

Surtex – held at the Jakob K. Javits Convention Centre in the Hell’s Kitchen area of Manhattan – offers hundreds of exhibitor booths, a huge variety of showcased art and design and a packed programme of expert ‘flash talks’ as part of its trend theatre, all adding up to plenty of party food for thought as far as Tracey is concerned.

“Over the years we have been visiting Surtex we have enjoyed making great new contacts that have culminated with great designed product,” she reveals.

“Sourcing innovative, fresh, and topical design is the first job of any manufacturer for whom product design is the essence of their offer.

“Party products don’t always take the

form of solid colours, and consumers these days demand on trend, seasonal, and design-led items.”

Neviti’s Pattern Works range for example plays with chevron and dot designs, using beautiful shades of pink, blue and gold to create a fresh, fashionable collection of product including everything from napkins and plates to sweetie bags and favour boxes.

The company’s broader product portfolio includes over 100 different designed ranges, catering for all tastes and needs.

“We have to offer a wide portfolio of trends on our products, from contemporary classic designs to modern, sometimes fad ranges,” Tracey explains.

“It’s all a case of keeping up with consumer demand. One of our standout ranges for 2018 has been the Scripted Marble collection based on the marble trend we noticed during a prior visit to Surtex. It’s now a top seller for weddings.

“Seeing what’s on offer at the show helps to confirm our thoughts that we are on the right track with our design planning. We need to get trends right as it’s an expensive mistake if we get it wrong.”

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Stephanie Fizer Coleman

Suzie Mason

Bryony Clarkson

Clair Bremner

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Ag Jatkowska

Allie Runnion

Katie Wilson

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PG Live 2018 Inset: PG Live 2018 will be an inspiring celebration of original design and creative talent.

For the last ten years, a celebration of all things greeting cards has taken place in the heart of London, with artists, designers, publishers and agencies all showcasing their latest artworks. A&D LSB finds out what's in store at this year's tenth anniversary show.

The Great Card Creative here's something very special about Progressive Greetings Live.

A two-day event dedicated to the global greeting card industry and held in the heart of London at the beginning of summer; it's not exactly the hardest gig of the year.

This year, over 260 exhibitors will be making the most of the only UK trade show dedicated to greeting cards, while vistors come from far and wide (more than 40 countries at the last count), making it an unmissable opportunity for anyone looking to discover exciting new collections.

Over the years, PG Live has become a popular hunting ground for licensees as many artists and publishers are also open to enquiries about licensing their fabulous designs. Just keep an eye out

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for the Licensing Friendly signs and then take it from there!

Greeting card company Cats & Roses will be exhibiting in Left: Botticelli Dogs - one of the new Cats & Roses ranges which will be on show at PG Live 2018.

Below: The Georgie & Friends range from hhdesigns offers a contemporary twist on animal photography.

Springboard (the area of the show dedicated to up-and-coming publishers) for the second year running. Artist Catherine Phelps launched her brand at PG Live 2017, where she was

PG LIVE 2018 Tuesday 5 June - Wednesday 6 June Business Design Centre Islington, London N1 0QH www.progressivegreetingslive.com Call us on +44 (0)1635 297070 Follow us on Twitter @PGLiveLondon

approached by a number of different companies offering to licence her ranges.

“At this point I realised that licensing could be an important part of my business,” says Catherine, who now has an ongoing collaboration with Karto, Finland's premier greetings card publisher, after creative director Eija Watia spotted two ranges she liked at last year's show.

“I hope to continue to pursue licensing in the future,” continues Catherine,“and showing at PG Live is essential if this plan is to bear fruit as it offers a unique platform to meet potential licensees and form working relationships.”

Brand new to PG Live for this year – but not brand new to licensing – is fun photographic company hhdesigns, which launched in April 2017, combining the talents of two friends. Offering a contemporary twist on animal photography, the collections now offer over 250 different designs.

“Our strategy is definitely to licence our images moving forward,” explains Emily Parton, who used to work in the licensing department at Warner Bros.“Every design we create in our key ranges we have envisaged working across a range of homewares, textiles, gift wrap and other product categories. We feel that this is the perfect route for hhdesigns.”

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PG Live 2018

“We are really excited about PG Live 2018 – this is our first trade show and we are hoping it will be instrumental to us achieving a much wider audience.” continues Emily. hhdesigns will be showing its top ranges at PG Live 2018 as well samples of its brand new ‘Georgie & Friends’ kitchen textile range which has already been licensed by kitchenware company ICTC (home of Emma Bridgewater products, among others).

The Gift Of Licensing Home and giftware company Lesser & Pavey are exhibiting at PG Live this year but will also, according to director Julian Hunt; “Take the opportunity to look around the show for new companies to licence from.

We'll be looking for new talent and for exciting new designs that are different from what we currently do.”

Julian is overwhelmingly positive about the crossover between cards and gifts in the licensing world. “It’s definitely a good route to go down,” he says. "Over the last 25 years we have paid artists significant amounts, reflecting how successfully their designs can transfer onto gift products. And of course, these gift products can also seriously improve the sales of the cards!”

Also showing at PG Live for the first time will be Californian illustrator Brittney Banks, who has been in the industry since 2014. Her colourful watercolour and pencil illustrations will be making their UK debut at the show.

“I hope to get a good introduction to the UK market, get inspired, take a risk

Above: Becky Bettesworth, by Carousel Calendars. This vintage poster art style is proving extremely popular at the moment.

Right: A themed kitchenware collection from Lesser & Pavey, featuring the Winter Stag illustration by Jennifer Rose.

and grow,” says Brittey.“I am nervous but excited!”

Brittney already licences a number of her designs in the Japanese market and is open to doing the same in the UK and in other territories.“I think it’s important for me as an artist to have a few plates in the air,” she explains.

“After four years experience in the US, I have a lot of ambition and excitement to see my brand grow here in the UK and I think licensing could be a great help!”

Of course, with so much licensing activity taking place at the show, it's no surprise that long-time exhibitor Bright Art Licensing uses the show as a platform for hunting out new artists to add to its ever-increasing portfolio.

“PG Live is an important show for us as we exhibit alongside our clients, showcasing new artists, new ranges and new styles that we have been working on in the months prior to the show,” explains licensing agent Hannah Curtis.

The show gives Bright the opportunity to gain valuable feedback from its client's sales team and to see the response from key buyers.“We also use it as a platform to liase with possible new artists who are either exhibiting at or visiting the show,” Hannah adds.“We are always on the lookout for new as well as established artists within the industry. As a trendled agency we welcome artists with new ideas that we can showcase to our clients and will help develop an artist's style in order to not only be commercial for our clients

Left: Many of Brittney Banks' colourful, fun designs are already being licensed in the Japanese market.

Below: A classic card collection by one of The Bright Agency's artists Ag Jatkowska, published

by Abacus Cards.

but also trend-led and progressive in a competitive market.”

As someone who makes the trip to PG Live specifically to look for potential new licensors, Martin Rees-Davies, head of licensing at Carousel Calendars, is able to really focus his attentions during the show.

“My approach for PG Live is that it is the start of really looking for new licences for the following year,” he explains. “So for PG Live 2018 I am looking for 2020 dated calendar licences. There is a close link between the greeting card sector and dated so having so many new and established publishers under one roof is absolutely ideal” The genres that work well for Carousel Calendars are humour, wildlife, birds and design, so Martin will be walking the aisles with a particular focus on those areas.

He also has a word or two of advice for any new artists looking to get involved in licensing; “An introductory approach to a licensee needs to be much more than 'this is my artwork, do you want to licence it?' I would encourage new artists to send your designs to prospective licensees but give some real thought to your target market and where it will work best at retail. Any supporting sales information and information about retailers who have shown interest can really help a licensee make a positive decision.”

With so many licensees and potential licensors looking to meet up and make deals, PG Live has proven itself to be rich pickings for anyone looking for fresh surface design.

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Licensing Expo Preview

Inset: Art and design has long been a staple category at the show.

Right: Last year’s Licensing Expo was one of the most successful to date, according to show organiser UBM.

Expo Essentials The art and design presence on the showf loor at Licensing Expo continues to be a strong one, with the event organiser – UBM – striving to cultivate the category even further. From long-time agency exhibitors and museums, through to new contemporary artworks and first timers, there’s a space for everyone as A&D LSB finds out. or the art and design business, May offers a number of opportunities to showcase just what makes the sector attractive to the wider licensing community.

One of these is Licensing Expo, which takes place between May 22-24 at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas, providing a strong platform for artists, designers, licensors and agents to highlight their latest offerings.

As Jessica Blue, svp for the Global Licensing Group at UBM, explains, art and design has long been a staple category at Licensing Expo, remaining an important category and one which the show organiser strives to cultivate.

“Our Art & Design presence is as strong as ever and we’ve noticed our

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Wearable art The National Gallery Company has collaborated with fashion retailer White Stuff on a new clothing and accessories range. It will feature images of Van Gogh’s iconic A Wheatfield, with Cypresses and Long Grass with Butterflies that are housed in the National Gallery collection.

It will consist of 11 pieces and launches in select shops and online on May 13. It will also be on display in the National Gallery shop for 12 weeks from the launch date.

Booth G156 Left: The White Stuff range launches in May.

Art & Design veterans need more space and want to be closer to brands and agents,” Jessica says.“Many exhibitors who began within the Art & Design section of the show floor have branched out including Art Brand Studios, Zolan Licensing Agency, Jewel Branding & Licensing and Artestar.”

The show also continues to attract new art and design properties every year, with Jessica highlighting Van Gogh Museum Enterprises, National Palace Museum, tokidoki and David Lozeau to name a few as newcomers in 2018.

For the second year running, Licensing Expo forms part of the wider Licensing Week, which includes a number of additional events for networking and business development for art and design companies and execs to get involved with.

Notable networking events include the Orientation Session for new exhibitors and attendees, the Agents’ Business Forum that brings together exhibiting agents and pairs them with

brand owners, the International Market Panel that will connect US brands with international licensees and retailers and VIBE from InventHelp. The latter is a virtual viewing station which allows companies to privately view ideas from InventHelp clients on large, interactive 3D touchscreens.

Art and design companies can also benefit from the popular Matchmaking Service. It was a huge success in 2017, with more than 3,800 meetings scheduled prior to Licensing Expo, an increase of more than 1,200 meetings from 2016.

As for advice for first time exhibitors in the art and design category, Jessica has this to say:“Plan and prepare! We’ve heard many success stories from our first-time exhibitors who credit part of their success directly to Matchmaking.

When using the service, don’t be shy and be open! If you’re new to brand licensing, it’s important to set expectations and learn.”

Comic turns Zenescope Entertainment is an independent comic book and graphic novel publisher. It is best known for its reimaginings of fairy tales and its unique takes on horror, sci-fi and supernatural thrillers.

Its flagship series is Grimm Fairy Tales, which boasts the largest female-driven shared universe in comics today, according to the company. Belle the beast hunter and Cinderella – a serial killer princess – will be showcased, as well as Van Helsing.

Booth B111 Right: Grimm Fairy Tales is the f lagship series from Zenescope Entertainment.

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Licensing Expo Preview

Birthday celebrations Giordano Studios is marking its 38th year in the industry and will be featuring its signature designs of puppies and kittens, seasonal and other traditional illustrations suitable for a variety of products.

New this year is the Giordano Fireside Pups collection, which has already proven popular on puzzles and greeting cards. Plans are also underway to expand the line into everyday pictorials which could work all year round.

Booth G87 Above: The Fireside Pups collection is a highlight for Giordano Studios

Above: New collections from Debra Valencia will be debuting.

Art Liaisons The Brand Liaison is known for art licensing including well-known brands such as trendy European property HotchPotch, Californian designer Debra Valencia and classic illustrations from Mary Engelbreit and Gary Patterson.

New collections for Debra Valencia debuting at the show will include florals, geometrics, coastal and ethnic themes, which can be used on a wide variety of products.

Meanwhile, HotchPotch is from UK gift and greeting card company Carte Blanche and The Brand Liaison has high hopes for it in the US market.

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Picture perfect A first time exhibitor at Licensing Expo, the Van Gogh Museum houses the world’s largest collection of Vincent van Gogh’s paintings, drawings, sketches and letters.

The museum’s mission is to make the work of Vincent van Gogh accessible to as many people as possible in order to ‘enrich and inspire’ them. It supports its licensing partners with extensive expert knowledge on his life and artworks, and is currently working with a wide range of international brands across various sectors. These include global brands such as Bugaboo and Samsonite.

Booth C82 Below: The Van Gogh Museum is a first time exhibitor at the show.

Photo ready Based on the simple concept of animals joining in the craze for taking selfies, the Selfies brand from Howard Robinson now has over 50 licensing partners around the world, producing items ranging from self boards and tobacco tins to baby onesies.

Some of the most recent agreements include Brumlow Mills in the US for accent rugs and carpets; Klaus Herding for bedding and cushions; Walltasic for wall murals and stickers; Trademark Global for box canvas and metal prints; and C&S Products for mugs, bags and coasters among others.

Licensing agent Ramon Go is also on board for China, South Korea, Phillippines and Indonesia, while Copyright Licensing Agency is handling the Middle East.

Booth E86 Below: Selfies has over 50 licensing partners worldwide.

Above: Nostalgia America is a new launch from Greg Giordano.

All American Greg Giordano enjoyed a successful 2017 with sales of licensed products featuring his artwork up over 30%. He continues to adapt his art styles and subject matter, expanding his licensing partners to over 50 licensees worldwide.

Newest licensed properties include Nostalgia America – which features vintage automotive subjects in classic American settings – plus Heartland America, which includes vintage pick-up trucks and tractors.

Greg also continues to represent artist J Charles and his family’s licensing company, Giordano Studios.

Booth G87

Crown Jewels Jewel Branding & Licensing will be featuring a vast array of brands as it celebrates its tenth year in business.

New clients premiering at the show include interior designer Stacy Garcia; artist and graphic designer Car Pintos; social media phenomenon Heather Land; and Cottonflower Studio, which was founded by Brazilianbased designer, Marina Oliveira.

In addition, new developments for portfolio regulars will also be showcased including New York Botanical Garden, Rachael Hale, Nordic design brand Finlayson, surf and lifestyle brand Hang Ten, celebrity designer Nikki Chu, Lily & Val, Catalina Estrada and Bouffants & Broken Hearts among others.

Booth H94 Above: New developments for New York Botanical Garden will be on display.

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creating little packages of imagination

Available to license.

An inspirational, contemporary youth brand sparkling with energy and originality! www.lemonribbon.com 058_A&D 2018.indd 1

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BRAND LICENSING EUROPE 2018 Inset: The Art & Design zone will now feel like an integral part of the show, says brand director Anna Knight.

Olympian dreams “

rt and design is a growing sector with sales increasing year on year, and that’s why we are giving these exhibitors the attention they rightly deserve this year,” Anna Knight, brand director at Brand Licensing Europe, explains to A&D LSB. The show is undoubtedly already a must-attend for anyone working in any sphere of the licensing industry across Europe – and the numbers bear this out. BLE 2017 was a record year, with attendee numbers increasing by 4% to over 7,500. There was also a healthy leap in the number

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of online retailers – 11% - indicative of the increasing popularity of internet shopping, and significant growth from visitors outside of the UK. It also grew considerably in size, with 289 exhibitors occupying 8% more floor space.

The dedicated Art & Design zone housed 24 exhibitors including 11 new exhibitors. In addition to this, 20% of the show’s visitors specifically

Planning is well underway for this year’s Brand Licensing Europe, with art and design companies lining up to pledge their support.

Major changes to the showfloor layout mean the art and design zone will benefit from better traffic and footfall, while they can also submit to the product showcase for the first time.

A&D LSB catches up with brand director Anna Knight to find out more. indicated that they were interested in the art and design sector, alongside more than 40% interested in properties that could be licensed into giftwares and homewares – a strong connection with art and design.

All of this has led Anna and her team to make significant layout changes to the showfloor this year, making use of the National Hall at Below: Vicki Thomas is a longstanding exhibitor at the show.

Show Stats Brand Licensing Europe 2018 Where: London Olympia When: October 9-11 Web: www.brandlicensing.eu

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MARY EVANS PICTURE LIBRARY vintage inspiration from every era

ď Ł www.maryevans.com pictures@maryevans.com 020 8318 0034

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BRAND LICENSING EUROPE 2018

Olympia and allowing the art and design companies to shine even further. “[ The changes] will allow exhibitors from all three licensing categories – Character & Entertainment, Brands & Lifestyle and Art & Design - to be situated together on one floor,” Anna says. “Both the Art & Design and Brand & Lifestyle zones will now feel like an integral part of the show – integrated, yet with defined zones – highlighting the many commonalities between licensing as opposed to the differences.”

The new layout will also improve the flow between zones and help to increase traffic and footfall to the art and design zone and the companies exhibiting within it.

On top of this, Anna is hoping that the show’s art and design exhibitors get involved with the 2018 theme of food and drink. She continues: “We are also moving our highly successful product showcase into the entrance of Brands & Lifestyle and Art & Design for the first year and will be inviting our art and design exhibitors to submit artwork or product for the very first time.”

Anna is also keen to encourage all of the art and design exhibitors to make use of the Matchmaking service, meaning they can have Below: Monika Suska Illustrations enjoyed great success with the Matchmaking service last year.

Below right: Lemon Ribbon will be returning to Olympia in October.

meetings booked up before they even arrive on site. The popular initiative certainly paid dividends for Monika Suska Illustrations last year, with the company commenting: “I'm extremely happy with our results at BLE. We ended up having 13 meetings booked, from which 11 took place. Some of those were nothing more than nice conversations but some of those turned out to be perfect matches. I ended up with some licensing deals as well as fabulous freelance jobs.”

Ashcroft Designs, too, is also an advocate of the service: “A really excellent service. It gave us confidence even before the show started. Tiggy, Sophie and Jo have been incredibly helpful. The app is well thought out e.g. the info on people and the favourites tabs. Also at the show, all the emails, text reminders and print outs were really helpful.”

While it’s too early for definitive exhibitor numbers for 2018, those companies already signed up include ‘Ahh’ Inspiring Art, Animaru, Art Ask Agency, Art Brand Studios, Assaf

Above: There will be plenty of networking opportunities for art and design companies at the show.

Frank Photography Licensing, Claire Louise, Howard Robinson & Associates, Lemon Ribbon, MGL Licensing, V&A and Monika Suska Illustrations among others.

The countdown is well and truly on to October’s event and Anna is ready to welcome the art and design sector with open arms – and is confident the changes made will be beneficial.

She concludes: “The biggest change we have made is the layout change – we think this will have a really beneficial impact on their exhibiting experience, including the number of retailers and licensees they get to meet and do business with.”

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Ailsa Black This extensive collection features animals, landscapes, surface patterns and lineart with a new harbour themed range now available for 2018.

Products include homeware, calendars, jigsaws, jewellery, textiles and more.

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Beryl Cook Instantly recognisable, this wonderful collection offers hundreds of images including new collages, cut outs and patterns.

Over 45 different product lines now available throughout the UK with international sub agents in place.

New nationwide exhibition confirmed for 2019 For more information say hello@thisisiris.co.uk

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DESIGNS FOR EVERY SURFACE BEGIN AT SURTEX. • Meet exhibiting artists, global design studios and agencies • Source thousands of creative works for your next hit product • Spot print and pattern trends • Discover the latest colors and styles • Network with manufacturers and retailers LEARN MORE AT SURTEX.COM

MAY 20 - 22, 2018 | JACOB JAVITS CONVENTION CENTER | NYC

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A great show that never disappoints!

We want our card offering to be ‘unique and different’ and found loads of incredibly fresh designs that fit this bill perfectly Kirsty Hicks, card buyer, Waitrose

The Greatest Collection Of Greeting Cards In The World Celebrating ten years of showcasing design excellence, PG Live 2018 is proud to present the greatest collection of greeting cards in the world.

Register now to receive your free copy of the PG Live 2018 Show Preview, a fantastic peek behind the scenes of this year’s anniversary show, with exclusive launches and show-only offers from over 260 publishers, artists and designers.

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INTERNATIONAL ART & DESIGN LICENSING SURTEX STAND 2623 • 20th - 22nd MAY

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