Oh, no. I'll use a greeting card company as an example, to sign a contract granting them license to sell artwork as cards, stationary, notepads, etc. I'm not great at explaining things.

Hi,

Licensing does take on different connotations depending on who you are talking to. For instance, while it's true that signing an agreement with a publisher is a form of licensing, most publishers don't use the term to describe contracting to reproduce 2D art prints as licensing. This is especially true of poster and open edition publishers.

These publishers refer to licensing as I think you are asking about. That would be finding ways to create revenue streams other than prints or giclees. Examples are greeting cards, linens, wallpaper and a host of other products.

There are a couple of good books on licensing worth reading: Art Licensing 101 and Licensing Art & Design. You can find quick links to both on the Good Reading link my Web site. You can also read my March 19 post on my blog. The Art of Licensing - Extending the Value of Your Art Prints. It points to a free download on licensing art from the publishers of Licensing magazine.

As you dig deeper, you'll find you need to attend or have representation at www.surtex.com and www.licensingshow.com. These are the premier shows for art licensing. Finally, check out Lance Porterfield's information on licensing at: http://www.porterfieldsfineart.com/. He provides lots of great information and insight.

Best wishes for success with it!