Securing a licence through DACS
We have a direct connection with artists, creators and their estates, and can access over 100,000 copyright holders to set up licensing agreements.
Whether you're licensing a single image or multiple works for a publication, exhibition, or product, we're here to help.
Why you need a licence
Copyright licensing enables authorised reproduction of works. The artist will generally hold the copyright for their work, and permission is needed to clear any usage with them. Licensing helps artists generate income from their work. They may restrict usage for certain purposes.
We also supply high-resolution image files for over 350 artists through DACS Images. For these artists you can obtain a license to use the work, plus a high resolution image file of it.
DACS liaises with artists and copyright holders on your behalf and sets up a licence, detailing rates for the image uses they permit.
How it works
You’ll need to tell us what you want to use the artwork for. This includes:
- type of use, for example: book cover, exhibition, merchandise
- where and how the work will appear
- intended audience and distribution scale
Some artists may also ask to see a proposed layout, printer's proofs or samples before giving permission.
Our team will let you know which artists have particular conditions for the use of their work. The team will provide you with a realistic timeframe in which permission may be granted.
Process and timeframe
We do everything we can to obtain permission and issue a licence for our customers' projects. If permission is not granted, where appropriate we'll suggest alternatives where available.
Getting a high-resolution image
DACS also provides high-resolution image files of work by over 350 artists and creators through DACS Images, our image bank. All images are artist-reviewed and ready to license.
How long the licence lasts
How long the licence lasts for depends on the use. Book publishing licences last 10 years. Merchandise licences are usually 1 year, but can also be on a rolling contract.
Sign up to the DACS Images newsletter for art licensing updates and insights