What is illustration licensing?
Licensing allows you to use existing artwork for commercial purposes, without commissioning new illustrations.
You pay for usage rights. I retain authorship.
- Faster than commissioned work
- Proven visuals ready for use
- Lower production costs
- Clear, professional agreements
LICENSE ENQUIRY FORM
A curated archive of original acrylic illustrations inspired by retro advertising, imagined lifestyles and cinematic nostalgia.
Each artwork is created using traditional techniques and designed to function as a strong visual centerpiece for brands seeking an authentic retro aesthetic.
VIEW AVAILABLE WORKS FOR LICENSING
My illustrations are commonly licensed for:
Advertising campaigns
Branding and visual identity
Editorial and book covers
Packaging and special editions
Apparel and merchandise
Digital and social media use
Posters and large-format prints
Standard license
For startups, independent publishers and single-use campaigns.
The Standard License is intended for clearly defined, single-use projects such as a specific campaign, product, or editorial application. It grants non-exclusive commercial usage of one artwork for a limited duration and territory, allowing the illustration to be used as a strong visual element without exclusivity. This option is ideal for brands and publishers who need a distinctive retro image for a focused purpose, while keeping production timelines and costs efficient.
REQUEST STANDARD LICENSE
Extended license
For established brands and creative agencies.
The Extended License is designed for broader, multi-platform use where the artwork becomes part of an ongoing campaign or brand communication. It grants non-exclusive commercial usage across multiple media, territories and a longer time span, offering greater flexibility and visibility. This license is best suited for established brands and agencies that require consistency and longevity, while maintaining access to an original illustration with a clearly defined scope of use.
REQUEST EXTENDED LICENSE
Exclusive license
For brands that require uniqueness and long-term control.
The Exclusive License is reserved for projects that require the artwork to be uniquely associated with a single brand or campaign. It grants exclusive commercial usage within the agreed sector, territory and duration, ensuring the illustration is not licensed to other parties within that context. Exclusivity is limited and granted selectively, making this option suitable for major campaigns, long-term brand use and projects where visual distinction and control are essential.
REQUEST EXCLUSIVE LICENSE
License Enquiry form
FAQ
What does illustration licensing mean?
Licensing means you are paying for the right to use an existing artwork for specific commercial purposes, under agreed conditions such as duration, territory and type of use. The copyright and authorship of the artwork remain with the artist unless otherwise stated in writing.
What is the difference between exclusive and non-exclusive licensing?
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Non-exclusive: Multiple companies or brands can use the same design simultaneously.
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Exclusive: You get exclusive use of a design within a specific product category and for an agreed period of time. Bern Foster retains the copyright and may license the design for other categories unless you request a full exclusivity agreement that covers all product categories.
Can I customize an artwork for my brand?
Minor adaptations, such as cropping or size adjustments, may be allowed depending on the license. Any significant visual modifications, alterations to style or additions of new elements require prior written approval.
Can I use the artwork for merchandise?
Merchandising use must be specified in the license agreement. If you plan to use the artwork on products for sale, please mention this when requesting a license so the appropriate terms can be applied.
Is there a limit to how many times the artwork can be used?
The number of uses depends on the license type and agreed scope. Standard licenses are intended for single, clearly defined uses, while Extended and Exclusive licenses allow broader and longer-term applications.
Can I renew or extend a license?
Yes. Licenses can be renewed or extended once the original term expires. Renewal terms and fees are calculated based on the new scope of use.
Can I sublicense or transfer the artwork to a third party?
No. Licenses are non-transferable and may not be sublicensed unless explicitly agreed in writing.
Do you offer commissioned work?
A limited number of commissions are accepted each year, subject to availability. Commissioned work is quoted separately and is not included in standard licensing options.
How long does the licensing process take?
Once the scope of use is agreed and payment is completed, high-resolution files are usually delivered within 48 hours.
