In this episode of the Art + Audience, Stacie sits down with Jehane, a seasoned artist and art licensing agent, to discuss the nuances of the art licensing world, the importance of authenticity, and the journey from being an artist to representing other artists. Jehane’s story is not just about career evolution but also about the deep connections and insights that fuel creative success.
Jehane’s journey began as a freelance artist with over 15 years of experience in creating and licensing her work. However, it was her passion for engaging with people, understanding the psychology behind art appreciation, and the joy of connecting artists with their dream clients that led her to transition into the role of an agent. Now, as the founder of Jehane Ltd., she represents 20 artists, helping them navigate the complexities of art licensing while fostering genuine relationships with clients.
A significant part of the conversation delves into the distinction between illustration and art licensing—a topic often misunderstood even by seasoned artists. Jehane clarifies that while licensing usually involves existing artwork being used across various products, illustration often refers to commissioned work created for specific applications such as books, magazines, or packaging. The narrative depth and custom nature of illustration set it apart, offering a more personalized touch that can resonate deeply with audiences.
One of the key takeaways from Jehane’s experience is the importance of building and nurturing relationships in the art industry. Jehane emphasizes that while pitching your work is crucial, the real magic happens when artists focus on the quality of their interactions rather than the quantity of emails sent. “Clients are looking for quality and something unique,” she notes, advising artists to engage meaningfully with potential clients, showcasing that they’ve done their research and genuinely understand the client’s needs.
Jehane candidly shares some of her early missteps, including a memorable encounter where she failed to recognize a client as the founder of a company. This experience underscored the importance of thorough research before meetings—an essential practice for artists and agents alike. Despite such hiccups, Jehane’s ability to learn and grow from these experiences has been pivotal in her successful transition from artist to agent.
In today’s world, where social media algorithms can often lead artists to create similar work, Jehane stresses the need for originality. She advises artists to step away from platforms like Pinterest and Instagram when seeking inspiration, and instead, focus on what truly resonates with them personally. This approach not only helps in developing a unique style but also ensures long-term success by avoiding the trap of producing generic, market-driven art.
The conversation also touches on the emerging role of AI in the art world. While some artists fear that AI could replace human creativity, Jehane remains optimistic, believing that the value of authentic, original work will only increase. She reassures that the human touch, creativity, and the stories behind the art are irreplaceable, suggesting that AI could push artists to refine their skills and embrace their unique voices even more.
For artists just starting or those considering representing their own work, Jehane offers simple yet profound advice: “Don’t wait until it’s perfect. Keep moving, stay active, and continue creating.” She believes that the process of making art, sharing it, and learning from each experience is far more valuable than striving for unattainable perfection.
To help artists develop their creative voices, Jehane has introduced a unique challenge called “Jehane’s Golden Thread.” This year-round challenge encourages artists to create new work based on prompts while carrying forward elements from previous pieces, creating a cohesive body of work. It’s a practical way to explore what makes their art distinct and to build a portfolio that truly reflects their creative journey.
Jehane’s insights offer invaluable guidance for artists at any stage of their careers. From understanding the intricacies of art licensing to the importance of relationships and originality, her advice underscores the need for authenticity in a world that often pushes for conformity. As Stacie and Jehane discuss, the journey of an artist is not just about creating art—it’s about building connections, learning from mistakes, and staying true to one’s creative spirit.
For artists looking to take the next step in their careers, Jehane’s story is a reminder that success comes from persistence, passion, and the courage to carve out your own path.
