Mark Monlux, Illustrator
I met Mark Monlux by phone a few years ago. I was in the middle of dealing with a frustrating case of copyright infringement.
I designed a wine label and licensed my image for the label. The license clearly defined that the image could only be reproduced on one print run of that label. That’s it. But later I discovered my image very poorly presented on a dirty sidewalk sign and on the client’s website.
Two cease and desist letters were simply ignored.
My membership to California Lawyers for the Arts yielded a fairly useless, less than 30 minute, consultation with an intellectual property attorney.
So I called the Graphic Design Guild to see if they could offer some guidance. I was referred to Mark, an illustrator, and he offered valuable guidance that helped me win my case.
I wanted to learn more about Mark and his success because it was clear to me that not only is he creative and talented, he is also an astute business man.
Listen to the recorded interview.
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It was our pleasure Andy! Thank you for letting us know how you benefited.
FANTASTIC interview! I’m eager to listen for a second time. I was here hollering “AMEN” and high-fiving myself. I’ve been a freelance illustrator since 2005 and so many points you both made really hit home with me. Early in my career I didn’t value myself and I’m so glad that’s behind me. I’m sure you have saved some new artists from going through that. And I was so glad to hear Mark talk about logos. The word “logo” makes me shutter these days.
Also, the Graphic Artist Guild book has been so valuable to me over the years. Every artist needs to purchase this book and stay current with the new editions.
I can’t thank you enough for giving me this extra boost of confidence.
Graphic Artists Guild Handbook: Pricing & Ethical Guidelines is the best source of boiler plate forms, contracts, and terms.
https://www.graphicartistsguild.org/handbook/
Thank you for this post . . .. I need to start using a form .. .that I haven’t been using.
It would be a contract that states that the image (painting/drawing) is now (once payment is made) property of the owner, but the copyright is not. I know how to make this clear with my design clients- and have a good contract in that regard.
Where can I find a simple form for my commission clients? Preferably one that is not too off-putting. When the subject matter is an animal, especially, I will want to sell giclee’s.
My pleasure Paula!
Loved the interview with Mark Monlux! It’s always encouraging to hear from full time, thriving artists and have them share with those of us still finding our way to the same state.
An added bonus was that I found out he is an alumni from my college and also admires the cartoonist,
Bob Cram, who now is a resident of my town.
Thanks for posting the interview! I continue to be inspired and encouraged by your success.