Picture a Santa Fe late October sunset. It’s hard to beat that image for artist/illustrators, and that’s where 500 plus of us gathered for the momentous 1^st Annual Illustrator’s Conference. We came to talk about and listen to issues concerning our business. No one knew quite what to expect but we came, if only to see what would happen with so many right brained minds in one place for one purpose! There were artists there at the very top of their profession many revered names, and others just beginning their personal climb to style and fame. It was a most exciting place, time and company in every way.

The Children’s publishing market was not well represented by artist, agents or organizations. I’m sure that will be remedied for the next conference. (June 24-27 ’01) Our market has problems and concerns slightly different than advertising or editorial markets. One of the big cries was to "never" take on "Work For Hire" jobs. (The other big cry was about "stock" - be careful!!!) Generally I agree, of course, but I also understand the particular needs of Educational Publishing. Buyers use hundreds of pieces of art in any one of their reading, phonics, math, social studies, etc. books. They frankly couldn’t afford to use illustration at all if they had to pay for each reuse, much less keep all of those records! But we need to encourage the change to "School Rights Only", rather than WFH. With SRO the publishers are getting the rights they need, and we are getting our art returned and keeping the rights they’ll never use. Several progressive publishers have changed to this already. (note: original art SHOULD be returned for WFH also — unless they pay extra for it. )

Trade book artists usually retain the image copyright in their name and, for a royalty, sell the rights the publisher can use to earn more royalties. There are still flat fee projects, especially in Mass Market, but often you can negotiate for other benefits if you can’t get this changed. NEVER be afraid to negotiate. It’s professional, and the publisher expects it. The more the publishers hear artists’ wants, needs and concerns the better our chances to get them changed for future projects. So pleasantly, but firmly, speak up!