Interview with Liz Wain, Founder of Wain’s World: Navigating the Changing World of Art and Design

The world of art and design is constantly evolving, and Liz Wain, founder of Wain’s World, is at the forefront of this change. In a recent interview with License Global ahead of the Licensing Expo, Wain shared insights into her journey of starting the agency and the current trends shaping the industry.

Wain’s World was born out of Liz Wain’s 30-plus year career in product design, development, and licensing. What started as a consulting gig eventually led to the creation of a licensing agency representing unique artist brands. Wain’s keen eye for talent and passion for product development have propelled the agency to represent 24 artist brands today.

When asked about the current trends in art and design, Wain highlighted the rise of Micro Trends and the Grand Millennial trend. Cheerful, icon-driven conversationals and sophisticated, toned-down hues are dominating the market, catering to a diverse range of consumer preferences.

Looking ahead, Wain predicts that technology will continue to shape the retail landscape, giving consumers more options to align with their personal values and aesthetics. With the rise of social media and influencers, end consumers now have direct access to the design community, driving appreciation for emerging artist brands.

As for the future of Wain’s World, Liz Wain is optimistic about the agency’s growth. With $23 million in retail placements in 2024 and a projected 25% growth for the year, Wain’s World is expanding its retail footprint across various categories. The agency’s commitment to providing innovative and creative content ensures that new collaborations will continue to excite consumers in 2025.

What sets Wain’s World apart from other licensing groups is Liz Wain’s comprehensive experience across the product process. As both an agent and creative director, she leverages her 360-degree licensing experience to facilitate efficient partnerships between licensors and licensees, paving the way for success for all involved.

In a rapidly changing industry, Liz Wain and Wain’s World are leading the charge in creating meaningful collaborations and bringing fresh, innovative designs to the market. As the agency continues to grow and evolve, one thing is certain – the future of art and design is in good hands with Liz Wain at the helm.