Every illustrator can make a difference in our industry this way. It nudges the rights issue to be fairer and the prices to be higher. But you should know that you are not alone after all.

I just returned from the 3 day 2nd Santa Fe Illustrators Conference entitled "Effecting Change." I'd also gone to the rather overall depressing 1st one in '99. This time there was hope, plans and action! The problems still exist in our extended industry. Even the very top illustrators say they are underpaid and have to fight for rights. (The Conde Nast issue is still being protested!) But they are doing something about it. Brad Holland gave a most eloquent keynote speech that inspired all by reminding us of our love of the creative expression. And he and others at the top of their field have formed the IPA (Illustrator Partnership of America) and the soon to be ALP (Artists' Licensing Partnership) which will have artists completely in control of their second usage rights and fees. And there is the new Coalition of Visual Artists (CVA), the Graphic Artists Guild's "Campaign for Illustration." The American Institute of Graphic Arts" (AIGA) is completing an educational minibook on ethical standards to share with its members and others.

This 2001 Conference also gave these various groups, which are all on the same road going the same way, the opportunity to make alliances amongst themselves. The ASMP (Association of Media Photographers) and the EP (Editorial Photographers), and SPAR (the Society of Photographer and Artist Reps, of which I am a board member) and the SI (the Society of Ill.) were also there presenting and working with the other organizations mentioned. All this to better YOUR life. I certainly wish there had been official representation from our Children's Book Market as well. I encourage all illustrators to join whatever group they can, and to read to keep yourself educated about what is being done. You may be alone in your studio, but you DO have market force. Working together we will earn Market Clout!