S2E7 - The Works of Art Licensing with The Father of Licensing, Michael Woodward

The father of art Licensing joins Erin Sparler this week to educate listeners on the whole works of licensing in the art world. Michael has been in this industry for over forty years. Michael was the first ever to make a portfolio and license art company. He is the author of Licensing Art 101, the President of an Art Agency named, Out of the Blue LLC, and a brilliant artist who has a passion for educating others.  

 

Many Artists understand the importance that comes with licensing, but rarely do we identify the opportunities of Art licensing. There is no degree or training for Art licensing, so this platform is often overlooked. However, it is a beneficial and necessary part of the art world. In this episode, Erin and Michael discuss many details contributed to art licensing such as, trends, claiming art, the evolution of licensing and software, being versatile, how to control art and rights and much more. We get to discover Michael’s background, current work environment and teachings he executes in his art career. To any of those interested in pursuing art licensing, or even any artists out there who know that being educated on all the elements of licensing will benefit their career, this episode is a great episode for you to take advantage of. 

  

 

In this episode you’ll hear: 

[2:45] All About Michael’s Company and Background 

[6:30] Transparency, Art and Photography 

[8:25] He Became the Father of Art Licensing  

[9:08] How the Internet Resulted in Product Change and How it was Managed  

[15:03] How to Stand Out in a Saturated World by Eliminating Wasted Time 

[20:00] What Publishers Seek  

[21:40] Educating Trend Forecasting, Pleasing Retailers and Importance of Colors 

[25:27] Systems for Handling Overwhelm   

[33:30] Older Computer System VS. Today’s Systems for Volume  

[35:00] Managing Staff, Properly Executing and Expansion 

[37:00] Simplified System and Protocols for Artwork and Artists  

[42:38] The Importance of Unique Titling and Metatags  

[45:47] What You Must Know About Licensing and Copyright 

[48:00] Educating on How to Take Control of Your Art and Rights  

[52:56] Where Art and Licensing Success is Headed  

[54:40] Pros and Cons of Creating Uniquely  

[57:00] How to Educate Students and Find Artistic Style (the 7 Elements) 

[1:02:38] Expand Ideas by Attending Shows 

 

 

Links Mentioned: 

Michael Woodward’s LinkedIn 

Art Licensing 

 

Software Mentioned: 

Lightroom 

Photoshop 

Illustrator  

 

Books Mentioned: 

Licensing of Art 101 Edition 3 Michael Woodward 

Art Licensing 101 Michael Woodward 

Licensing Art and Photography 101 Michael Woodward