Kinkade Legacy in lawsuit to reclaim rights from former Licensee

In early 2024, The Kinkade Family brought a lawsuit to reclaim the intellectual property associated with the work and life of Thomas Kinkade, against Art Brand Studios, “ABS”—their licensee, and the agency responsible for establishing sublicensees in merchandise categories and for wall décor.

The legal proceedings are ongoing and have not concluded. However, earlier this year, a judge of the Los Angeles County Superior Court determined that the Kinkades will likely be successful in this dispute and ordered ABS on May 9, 2024 to stop conducting business with the Kinkade Property until the conclusion of the ongoing legal proceedings. ABS has appealed this order, which may be stayed pending appeal.

The legal proceedings are ongoing, with an arbitration hearing set for later this year, in which the dispute will be fully resolved. At this juncture, the Kinkades are focused on ensuring that there will be as little disruption as possible to its sublicensees. Sublicensees are directed to contact contact@kinkadelegacy.com with any questions about the legal proceedings or about licensing associated with the Kinkade Property.