Michael Woodward

Industry veteran, Michael Woodward runs his Agency “Out of the Blue” from Sarasota, Florida specializing in fine art and photography.

“We have all had that ‘pit of the stomach’ feeling when we have a reaction to something that has shown up into our lives through serendipity. We instantly know it was meant to be. That is why our Company motto is ‘Where serendipity, creativity and commerce merge’. We are the conduit that creates the perfect match between artist & publisher, to produce products that the consumer is delighted to own.”

“We look for artists and photographers who can produce work in series which is either suitable for mass market home décor or work of a more fine art nature, particularly abstracts suitable for the hospitality industry i.e. hotels, restaurants, offices etc. Nature and water subjects which relate to the environment are of particular interest as “green technology and environmental factors” now play a huge role in architecture and interior design.”

Michael has licensed over $600 million in retail goods over his thirty-year career in art-based licenses. He has written the most comprehensive handbook available today to guide artists and creators through the ‘licensing maze” called “Licensing Art 101’. He speaks at seminars on many aspects of licensing and “The Licensing Course” is the most comprehensive educational tool for artists entering the licensing industry. He is available for private consultations on a case-by-case basis.

Jane Mason- Licensing Manager

Jane Mason joined Out of the Blue in September 2007. Having moved to the US 10 years ago from the UK she first worked in the IT Industry. Besides looking after management accounts and royalty reports Jane is charged primarily with keeping Michael in line and making sure things run smoothly.  She is also responsible for developing new projects with artists in the greetings card, stationery and gift product market.

“Besides being a lively personality she makes a great cup of earl grey tea, which has been a tradition at Out of the Blue for many years. Her dream of becoming a pole dancer has now been thwarted as I have made her sign a 20 year contract”, jokes Michael.