A New Art Licensing Agency - Jennifer Nelson Artists

Life lately has been very busy and fun. My recent trips and adventures in the Southwest have inspired me to create new and unique collections. I can't wait to start painting again!

While taking a break from traveling and other design projects, I want to introduce you all to a new art licensing agency called Jennifer Nelson Artists. I am sure you've heard of it on other social media but I am happy to publish this exclusive interview with Agent Jennifer Nelson:

WHO YOU ARE, WHERE YOU ARE FROM AND WHAT YOU DO: I grew up in Atlanta, GA and went to school at the Pratt Institute in NYC. I live in Arlington, MA now. I've been a graphic designer (primarily books) for 25+ years and agent for nearly 4 years.

Agent Jennifer Nelson

I worked on some big accounts such as General Mills cereals, National Geographic, Sports Illustrated Kids and Nickelodeon. My work has been recognized by leading trade organizations and publications including American Institute of Graphic Arts, Association of Educational Publishers, Boston Book Builders Association, Creative Child Magazine, Communications Arts Magazine, Dr. Toy, Fat Brain Toy Award, HOW Magazine, International Book Award, Mom's Choice Award, Print Magazine, Publisher's Weekly, The Toy Book and has been awarded several Parent's Choice Awards.

YOUR FAVORITE DESIGN/ART STYLE: I like so many things but lately my focus is on painterly work, vector art, anything cheerful and colorful, and art combined with strong lettering. Ask me again next month and I'll likely name something else.

THE MAIN INSPIRATION BEHIND YOUR WORK/AGENCY: After years of working with illustration as a graphic designer I really wanted to get into the meat and potatoes of the art world.

Now I get to work directly with artists and that's satisfying on many levels.

WHAT YOU REALLY LOVE, I.E. YOUR PASSION: Since I was 5 years old I've loved art, color and design. And especially lettering. I'm passionate about lettering.

Right now I'm looking for another great letterer so please start getting your portfolios together and show me your work!

WHAT YOU DON'T REALLY LIKE: I really don't like agents who take advantage of illustrators. I'm striving to be the agent who is fair as well as successful, who has a personal approach and time for one-on-one with my artists as well as our clients.

A FAVORITE SOMETHING: My absolutely favorite is the work of these 5 artists! I mean it. Monika Forsberg's honest, direct color and design sensibility. Jennifer Orkin Lewis's sophisticated painterly approach. Bee Brown's fun, playful lettering. Lauren Lowen's whimsical wit and irreverent attitude. Victoria Johnson's eclectic technique, combining embroidery, painting and collage. All is this brings me immense joy.

A MEMORABLE EVENT IN YOUR LIFE: Aside from enormous pride in my teenage son and the support I get from my wonderful husband Baz, my most memorable event is actually very recent.

I honestly have to say that the January launch of Jennifer Nelson Artists was amazingly successful, beyond my wildest dreams. I feel very grateful to all who have come out of the woodwork with encouragement, well wishes and assignments!

A FUN MEMORY: I vividly remember the first time I saw a book of mine being printed back in 1992. The smell of the ink and watching the paper flying off the presses. It was thrilling.

YOUR CONTRIBUTION TO THE WORLD AS AN ARTIST/AGENCY: I'm proud of the fact that we're providing an alternative. Now art directors have another option for smart, beautiful illustrations.

THE NEXT CHAPTER IN YOUR PROFESSIONAL LIFE: We will be at SURTEX 2015. The artists each have their own booth, as the agency just opened in January 2015 - but I will be there assisting the artists and meeting with clients.

We are looking forward to it very much. If you are going to be at the show and want to connect with me, send me a note beforehand and we will make a date!

A HELPFUL TIP TO OTHER ARTISTS: Remember to be true to yourself. Clients want to see your unique hand and the delight you take in your work. Your enthusiasm is contagious.