California's illustration companies cater to a vast market, providing visual storytelling through various artistic forms. From custom art services to medical animation and branded design, these companies engage professionals and businesses alike. With growing demands for digital content and immersive experiences, the industry is pivoting toward innovative applications, including augmented and virtual reality illustrations. Consequently, tech-savvy platforms that facilitate the sale and promotion of artworks are emerging, making it easier for artists to reach a worldwide audience. The state's rich pool of creative talent continues to push the boundaries, ensuring that illustration remains an integral aspect of modern marketing and communication.

This article highlights 20 illustration companies based in California, showcasing a mix of small studios and mid-sized agencies. Founded between 1994 and 2018, these firms range in size from 1 to 500 employees, with specialties in areas such as animation, design, and custom artwork. Notable firms include Sketchmob, Oz Studio, and IDW Publishing, illustrating the vibrant creative scene in cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Santa Monica. Each company plays a specific role in delivering artistic solutions for clients in various sectors, tailoring services to meet unique project needs.

Read on to discover California's top illustration companies and their offerings.

Top 20 Illustration Services Companies in California

1. Sketchmob

• Website: sketchmob.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Indonesia 68%, Philippines 32%
• Founded year: 2013
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: sketchmob

Sketchmob is a custom art service based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2013. The company specializes in artistic commissions, offering a wide range of styles including portraits, illustrations, and more. It serves consumers who are looking for personalized artwork, while also providing a platform for artists to showcase their talents and connect with potential clients. With a small team of around 22 employees, the company has a significant presence in Southeast Asia, with a majority of its workforce based in Indonesia and the Philippines. Sketchmob has not reported any funding, indicating a self-sustained business model that relies on its commission-based services to thrive in the competitive art market.

2. Oz Studio

• Website: ozstudio.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Angola 100%
• Founded year: 1997
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: oz-studio

Oz Studio, founded in 1997 and based in San Francisco, California, is a photography studio that specializes in photo retouching, illustration, and photography services. With a small team of 1-10 employees, the studio has carved out a niche in providing high-quality visual content tailored for marketing and branding purposes. The founder, Michael Osborn, has a background in fine art, illustration, and photography, which informs the studio's artistic approach. Over the years, Oz Studio has worked with various clients, delivering compelling imagery that includes 2D and 3D illustrations for well-known brands such as AT&T and projects related to the Rio 2016 Olympics. Their portfolio showcases a blend of creativity and technical skill, making them a relevant player in the illustration industry.

3. Leroy & Rose

• Website: leroyandrose.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Santa Monica, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 80%, France 18%, Other 2%
• Founded year: 2013
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: leroy-and-rose

Leroy & Rose is a creative agency based in Santa Monica, California, founded in 2013. The agency specializes in a range of creative services, including art direction, design, writing, illustration, animation, and editing. They work closely with businesses and organizations to craft compelling visual narratives that enhance branding and marketing strategies. Leroy & Rose has collaborated with high-profile clients such as Netflix, Hulu, and Paramount+, showcasing their ability to deliver impactful visual content. With a team of passionate professionals, the agency fosters a collaborative environment that encourages creativity and innovation in their projects. Their focus on illustration, alongside other creative services, positions them as a relevant player in the visual content industry.

4. Frameworks Artists Inc.

• Website: frameworks-la.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: frameworks-artists-inc

Frameworks Artists Inc. is an art agency based in Los Angeles, California, founded in 1996. The company specializes in storyboard and illustration services, primarily serving clients in the entertainment and advertising industries. They represent a range of artistic talent, including color and black & white storyboard artists, sketch artists, and production design illustrators. Frameworks Artists operates by connecting skilled artists with production companies that require visual storytelling for their projects. Over the years, they have collaborated with some of the biggest names in commercial, television, and feature film production, as well as major advertising agencies across the United States. Their business model focuses on providing high-quality artistic services while maintaining competitive pricing, which they achieve by keeping operational costs low. This approach allows them to offer personalized service and a smaller commission structure, making them an attractive option for clients seeking top-notch illustration work.

5. Famous Frames Inc.

• Website: famousframes.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Culver City, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1988
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: famous-frames

Famous Frames Inc., based in Culver City, California, is a creative agency that has been innovating in the fields of storyboarding, illustration, and animatics since its founding in 1988. The company represents a roster of talented artists who specialize in various forms of visual storytelling, including key art, concept art, and experiential renderings. Famous Frames has established itself as a reliable partner for major players in the advertising and entertainment sectors, providing services that enhance the presentation of films, commercials, and video games. Their clientele includes industry giants such as Disney, Marvel, and Apple, indicating their capability to deliver high-quality work on significant projects. With a commitment to personalized service and a global operational footprint, Famous Frames continues to play a vital role in the visual arts industry.

6. Poster Posse

• Website: posterposse.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Mission Viejo, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 85%, Germany 15%
• Founded year: 2013
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: poster-posse-inc.

Poster Posse, operating under MEOKCA, Inc., is a creative agency based in Mission Viejo, California, founded in 2013. The company specializes in illustration and design services tailored for the entertainment industry, collaborating with major clients to create visually compelling marketing assets. Their work includes key art, motion graphics, and other promotional materials aimed at enhancing the visibility of films, television shows, and video games. With a team of talented artists, Poster Posse transforms concepts into striking visuals, contributing to the marketing efforts of well-known brands like Disney, Sony Pictures, and Warner Bros. The agency's commitment to storytelling and artistic detail has made it a notable player in the illustration space, particularly within the entertainment sector.

7. State

• Website: statedesign.tv
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2014
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: statedesign

State is a design agency based in Los Angeles, California, founded in 2014. With a team of 11-50 employees, they specialize in animation and visual storytelling, offering a broad spectrum of creative services to brands. Their work includes crafting engaging content that connects with audiences, and they have collaborated with major companies in technology and entertainment. Notable projects include animations for Google, Apple, Netflix, and Riot Games, showcasing their expertise in high-impact design. State's approach combines various artistic techniques, including illustration, to create compelling narratives and visual languages for their clients. They have established a reputation for delivering innovative and effective design solutions, making them a relevant player in the illustration industry.

8. Workbook Creative, Inc.

• Website: workbookcreative.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Beverly Hills, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1977
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: serbin-communications-inc-

Workbook Creative, Inc., founded in 1977 and based in Beverly Hills, California, is a marketing agency dedicated to promoting professional artists, including photographers, illustrators, and animators. The company offers portfolio websites, printed talent directories, and various marketing programs designed to connect artists with creative buyers in the advertising and publishing sectors. Their services help artists showcase their work effectively, facilitating hiring by industry professionals. Notably, Workbook Creative operates the Directory of Illustration, a key resource for illustrators seeking visibility and opportunities in the market. They also run specialized programs for medical illustration and animation, further demonstrating their commitment to supporting artists across different niches. With a team of 15 employees, Workbook Creative remains focused on enhancing the careers of artists through innovative marketing strategies.

9. Scientific Animations

• Website: scientificanimations.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Tustin, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: India 83%, United States (USA) 10%, Canada 7%
• Founded year: 2004
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: scientific-animations

Scientific Animations Inc., based in Tustin, California, is a medical animation studio founded in 2004. The company employs between 11 to 50 people, with a significant portion of its workforce located in India. They focus on producing high-quality animations and interactive applications specifically for the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries. Their work helps clients convey intricate medical concepts through visual storytelling, which is essential for marketing and educational purposes. Scientific Animations has developed a range of projects, including animations for various medical fields such as cardiology, gynecology, and neurology. They also create custom applications for training and patient education, showcasing their commitment to enhancing understanding in the medical community. The company operates primarily within the United States, catering to businesses and organizations that require specialized visual content to communicate complex medical information effectively.

10. Fine Art America / Pixels.com

• Website: fineartamerica.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Santa Monica, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 87%, Canada 3%, Greece 3%, Other 8%
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: fineartamerica

Fine Art America / Pixels.com, founded in 2006 and based in Santa Monica, California, operates as an art marketplace and print-on-demand service. The company connects independent artists with consumers looking for unique art and home decor products. Artists can sell their work through the platform, which features a wide array of products, including prints, home decor, and apparel. With 16 global production facilities, Fine Art America ensures efficient order fulfillment, supporting artists by providing them with sales and marketing tools to enhance their careers. The platform hosts hundreds of thousands of artists, photographers, and illustrators, offering millions of images for sale. This extensive network allows Fine Art America to play a crucial role in the visual arts community, promoting the work of independent creators while catering to a broad audience of art buyers.

11. Buck

• Website: buck.co
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 76%, Netherlands 13%, Australia 9%, Other 2%
• Founded year: 2004
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: buck

Buck is a creative agency based in Los Angeles, California, founded in 2004. The company specializes in art, design, and technology, providing innovative solutions that enhance brand storytelling and experiences for businesses and organizations. With a global presence, Buck emphasizes collaboration and creativity, aiming to deliver impactful results. Their portfolio includes notable projects such as an in-game experience for Brawl Stars, which received accolades at prestigious events like Cannes Lions and D&AD. Buck's team is composed of talented individuals who contribute to a culture that fosters creative ambition. They also produce an annual impact report to measure their contributions to society and the environment, reflecting their commitment to responsible business practices.

12. Noun Project

• Website: thenounproject.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 75%, Indonesia 18%, Colombia 7%
• Latest funding: Seed, $2.0M, May 2014
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: noun-project

Noun Project, founded in 2011 and based in Los Angeles, California, is a digital design platform that offers an extensive collection of icons and stock photos tailored for various creative projects. The company serves a broad audience, including designers, businesses, and organizations, by providing high-quality visual resources that enhance communication and design. Operating on a subscription model, Noun Project allows users to access unlimited downloads while ensuring that global artists receive royalty payments for their contributions. With a workforce of around 60 employees, the company has established itself as a significant player in the visual resource industry. Noun Project has also received funding, with a notable seed round of $2 million in 2014, which has likely supported its growth and expansion efforts. Their initiatives, such as Iconathons, further illustrate their commitment to fostering creativity and community engagement within the illustration sector.

13. Bpe

• Website: buzzparker.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Arcata, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Nigeria 100%
• Founded year: 1994
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: bpe_2

Bpe, known as Buzz Parker, is an art studio based in Arcata, California, founded in 1994. The company specializes in illustration, painting, and design, offering a range of artistic products that appeal to both individual consumers and businesses. Their portfolio includes distinctive beer label posters and tour posters, showcasing their ability to create visually engaging artwork. Buzz Parker operates primarily through an online platform, allowing for direct sales and a broader reach to customers. The studio's work reflects a strong artistic vision and a commitment to quality, making it a notable player in the illustration industry.

14. Laundry

• Website: laundry.studio
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 63%, Indonesia 19%, United Arab Emirates 4%, Other 14%
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: laundry-design-llc

Laundry is a creative agency based in Los Angeles, California, founded in 2005. The company specializes in visual storytelling and production services, offering a wide array of services that include animation, live action, design, and visual effects. They work with various businesses and organizations to create engaging content that enhances brand presence. Laundry has a global reach, with offices in San Francisco and New York, and a team that reflects a commitment to inclusivity, featuring significant female and LGBTQIA+ representation. Their portfolio showcases a variety of projects, from commercial campaigns to artistic collaborations, highlighting their ability to blend different media forms. Notably, they have worked with high-profile clients such as Adobe, Coca-Cola, and Uber, demonstrating their capability to handle significant projects in the creative industry.

15. Studio Number One (SNO)

• Website: studionumberone.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 84%, Italy 16%
• Founded year: 2003
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: studio-number-one

Studio Number One (SNO), founded in 2003 by Shepard and Amanda Fairey, is a creative agency based in Los Angeles, California. The firm specializes in art direction, design, branding, and advertising, with a strong emphasis on creating impactful visual experiences. SNO is known for its innovative approach to storytelling, which often incorporates illustration as a key element. The agency has worked with various clients, producing a range of visual materials including posters, logos, and murals. Their commitment to social causes is evident through their free downloadable art, which addresses pressing issues like climate change and women's rights. This initiative reflects their dedication to community engagement and meaningful dialogue. With a team of 31 employees, SNO continues to influence the art and design industry, leveraging Shepard Fairey's background in street art to challenge conventional perceptions and inspire action through visual communication.

16. Wolf Den

• Website: wolf-den.tv
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Oakland, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: wolf-den

Wolf Den is a creative studio based in Oakland, California, founded in 2018. The company specializes in design and animation services, focusing on motion graphics and visual storytelling. They have worked with a variety of clients, including major brands like Google, Visa, and Pinterest, to create engaging content that enhances brand communication. Wolf Den prides itself on its collaborative approach, bringing together a talented team of animators, illustrators, and designers to deliver high-quality projects. Their portfolio includes a range of work from animated commercials to educational videos, demonstrating their versatility in the creative services industry. The studio operates with a small team, emphasizing a talent-driven environment that fosters creativity and innovation.

17. Bien

• Website: thisisbien.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 86%, Turkey 14%
• Founded year: 2017
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: thisisbien

Bien is a motion design and animation studio based in Los Angeles, California, founded in 2017. The company operates with a strong emphasis on inclusive design principles, aiming to enhance media representation for brands and agencies. Their services include animation production, illustration, and custom sound design. Bien has developed a unique methodology called Inclusive Motion Design (InMoDe™), which focuses on authentic representation and accessibility in storytelling. The studio has collaborated with high-profile clients such as Hulu, Meta, and Dropbox, producing work that reflects their commitment to cultural authenticity and social responsibility. With a team that includes historically excluded individuals in leadership roles, Bien is not just creating art; they are advocating for change in the industry.

18. PAPATON Studio

• Website: papaton.studio
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 65%, Kenya 18%, Russia 18%
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: papaton

PAPATON Studio, founded in 2015 and based in Los Angeles, California, is a creative agency that specializes in animation and character design. With a team of 11-50 employees, the studio operates remotely, drawing talent from various locations including the USA, Kenya, and Russia. PAPATON Studio offers a comprehensive range of services, including 2D and 3D animation, explainer videos, and social media campaigns. Their clientele primarily consists of businesses in the advertising and entertainment sectors, seeking to create engaging visual content. The studio has built a reputation for its collaborative approach, ensuring that projects are completed on time and to a high standard. They have also established PAPATON Lab, a space for creative collaboration and idea development, further showcasing their commitment to innovation in the industry.

19. Shimahara Visual

• Website: shimaharavisual.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Santa Monica, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: shimaharavisual

Shimahara Visual, founded in 1999 and based in Santa Monica, California, is a creative agency that specializes in architectural visualization, branding, film production, illustration, and virtual reality. With studios in Los Angeles, New York, and Boston, the company serves clients primarily in the architecture and real estate sectors. Shimahara Visual is known for its innovative visual solutions that enhance branding and storytelling. Their illustration services are particularly noteworthy, as they filter architectural knowledge through a cinematic lens, resulting in compelling digital renderings and concept art. The agency collaborates with a range of partners, including prominent firms in architecture and real estate, to deliver high-quality creative services that meet the unique needs of their clients.

20. IDW Publishing

• Website: idwpublishing.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 80%, Australia 8%, France 4%, Other 8%
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: idw-publishing

IDW Publishing, founded in 1999 and based in Los Angeles, California, is a private comic book publisher known for its high-quality comic books, graphic novels, and art books. The company has carved out a niche by focusing on popular franchises such as Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Star Trek, and Sonic the Hedgehog, alongside original stories. IDW Publishing operates through direct sales on their website, providing a platform for comic enthusiasts to access a wide range of products. They also have a notable presence in the digital comics market, catering to the evolving preferences of consumers. The company is recognized for its commitment to artistic quality, with several of its titles receiving prestigious awards, including Eisner and Harvey Awards. IDW Publishing also features imprints like Top Shelf Productions, which showcases independent and innovative works, further solidifying its role in the comic and illustration industry.

Illustration Services Insights: Key Companies in California

Company	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Ownership
Sketchmob	San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	1-10	2013	Private
Oz Studio	San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	1-10	1997	Private
Leroy & Rose	Santa Monica, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2013	Private
Frameworks Artists Inc.	Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)	11-50	1996	Private
Famous Frames Inc.	Culver City, California, United States (USA)	1-10	1988	Private
Poster Posse	Mission Viejo, California, United States (USA)	1-10	2013	Private
State	Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2014	Private
Workbook Creative, Inc.	Beverly Hills, California, United States (USA)	11-50	1977	Private
Scientific Animations	Tustin, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2004	Private
Fine Art America / Pixels.com	Santa Monica, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2006	Private
Buck	Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)	201-500	2004	Private
Noun Project	Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2011	Private Equity
Bpe	Arcata, California, United States (USA)	1-10	1994	Private
Laundry	Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2005	Private
Studio Number One (SNO)	Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2003	Private
Wolf Den	Oakland, California, United States (USA)	1-10	2018	Private
Bien	Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2017	Private
PAPATON Studio	Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2015	Private
Shimahara Visual	Santa Monica, California, United States (USA)	11-50	1999	Private
IDW Publishing	Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)	51-200	1999	Private

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