New York's illustration industry thrives on creativity, bringing together talented artists, studios, and agencies. This sector includes companies specializing in various forms of visual communication, such as children’s book illustrations, advertising, and fashion sketches. As technology evolves, many firms are adapting by integrating digital tools and multimedia platforms into their services, transforming traditional artistic practices. The industry is expected to expand as brands increasingly recognize the value of unique visual storytelling in their marketing strategies. Additionally, a growing trend towards sustainable and ethical art practices influences how studios operate and connect with clients.

The New York illustration scene features a mix of established agencies and emerging studios, ranging in size from solo freelancers to teams of over 200. Founded between 1929 and 2019, these companies show a clear inclination towards specialization—whether it’s children's literature, branding, or fashion. Noteworthy names include IllustrationX, Astound US Inc, and Mendola Artists Representatives. Their varied offerings reflect current trends, with an emphasis on digital artistry and live events, indicating a dynamic market poised for growth and collaboration.

Continue reading to explore the premier illustration companies in New York.

Top 24 Illustration Companies Companies in New York

1. IllustrationX

• Website: illustrationx.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 38%, United States (USA) 27%, Brazil 8%, Other 26%
• Founded year: 1929
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: illustrationx

IllustrationX is an illustration agency based in New York, New York, that specializes in connecting clients with talented illustrators and animators. Founded in 1929, the company has built a robust portfolio of creative services, including illustration for marketing campaigns, publishing projects, and children's books. With a team of skilled professionals, IllustrationX serves a wide array of clients, from businesses to individual creators, seeking high-quality visual content. The agency operates on a global scale, with a significant presence in the UK and a growing footprint in countries like Brazil, China, and Spain. Their commitment to showcasing a variety of artistic styles and techniques makes them a notable entity in the illustration industry.

2. Astound US Inc

• Website: astound.us
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 78%, United Kingdom (UK) 10%, Philippines 4%, Other 8%
• Founded year: 2014
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: astound-us

Astound US Inc, based in New York, is an illustration agency founded in 2014. The company specializes in representing freelance children's book illustrators, acting as a bridge between authors, publishers, and talented artists. Their services are tailored primarily for the publishing industry, facilitating the creation of engaging illustrations that enhance children's literature. With a team of 231 artists, Astound US Inc showcases a variety of styles and artistic approaches, catering to the unique needs of their clients. The agency's focus on children's books positions it as a key player in this specific segment of the illustration market, allowing them to carve out a niche that emphasizes creativity and storytelling.

3. Snyder

• Website: wearesnyder.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2013
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: snyder-new-york

Snyder is a New York-based creative agency founded in 2013, dedicated to representing a range of illustrators, animators, and visual artists. The agency offers a variety of creative services, including illustration, animation, character design, and mixed media. Snyder connects businesses and organizations with talented artists to create unique visual content that enhances branding and marketing efforts. The agency prides itself on being woman-owned and emphasizes an ethos of inclusivity. Snyder has built a strong roster of artists who have worked with prominent clients such as Disney, Facebook, and Pepsi, showcasing their capability to deliver high-quality creative solutions. Their focus on empowering both clients and artists positions them as a significant player in the illustration industry.

4. Chic Sketch

• Website: chicsketch.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: chicsketch

Chic Sketch, founded in 2015 and based in New York City, is a fashion illustration service that merges technology with artistry. The company offers a mobile app where users can upload photos to receive custom sketches created by professional fashion illustrators. This service is not only available through the app but also at live events, where Chic Sketch artists engage with guests, providing a memorable experience. The company has sketched for a variety of clients, including celebrities and brands at major events like New York Fashion Week and BravoCon. With a team of skilled illustrators, Chic Sketch aims to make fashion illustration accessible and enjoyable for everyone, emphasizing the beauty and individuality of each customer. The founders, Emily Brickel Edelson and Jordan Edelson, bring a wealth of experience in fashion and technology, further enhancing the company's credibility in the industry.

5. Mendola

• Website: mendolaart.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1973
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: mendola

Mendola Artists Representatives, based in New York City, is an artist representation agency that has been operational since 1973. The company specializes in connecting talented illustrators and animators with clients across various sectors, primarily focusing on publishing and advertising. Mendola offers a broad array of artistic services, including illustrations for books, packaging, and editorial projects. The agency represents a wide range of artists, showcasing their unique styles and specialties, which include everything from children's book illustrations to infographics and character design. With a dedicated team and a robust portfolio of artists, Mendola plays a crucial role in facilitating creative collaborations between artists and businesses seeking high-quality visual content.

6. Fuzzco

• Website: fuzzco.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: fuzzco

Fuzzco is a creative agency based in New York, founded in 2005. With a team of 15 employees, they specialize in branding, content creation, and digital solutions. Their client base includes tech companies, lifestyle brands, and various other sectors, showcasing their ability to adapt to different market needs. Fuzzco emphasizes collaboration and innovation, tailoring their services to meet the unique demands of each client. They offer a range of services, including branding strategy, content development, and digital design, with illustration being a key component of their content creation process. Their portfolio features work for notable clients like Notion and Figma, where they have developed visual identities and marketing campaigns that incorporate custom illustrations. This involvement highlights their capability and relevance in the illustration space.

7. Franklyn

• Website: franklyn.co
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Brooklyn, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 80%, Italy 20%
• Founded year: 2012
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: franklyn

Franklyn is a creative studio based in Brooklyn, New York, founded in 2012. With a team of 20 employees, the studio specializes in various design services, including brand identity, digital design, and collateral. They work with a range of clients across multiple industries, helping businesses enhance their brand presence through thoughtful and original design solutions. Franklyn's portfolio showcases their ability to integrate illustration into their projects, as seen in their collaborations with companies like Metlife and WeWork. Their approach emphasizes collaboration and creativity, aiming to make the design process enjoyable while delivering impactful results. Franklyn operates primarily in the United States, with a small portion of their team based in Italy, reflecting their international reach and influence in the design community.

8. Atrbute

• Website: atrbute.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 91%, United Kingdom (UK) 9%
• Founded year: 2019
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: atrbute

Atrbute is a New York-based talent agency founded in 2019, specializing in creative services. With a team of 21 employees, the agency represents photographers, artists, and animators, connecting them with brands and organizations for collaborative projects. Atrbute operates in various creative fields, including photography, art, animation, and licensing, serving clients across industries such as fashion and media. Their portfolio includes a dedicated section for art and illustration, showcasing a variety of artists and their works. Atrbute also engages in exhibitions and licensing, further solidifying their presence in the creative industry. The agency's commitment to supporting original voices and artistic endeavors is evident in their strategic partnerships and projects, making them a notable player in the creative services sector.

9. the STUDIO NYC

• Website: thestudio.nyc
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1984
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: the-studio-nyc

the STUDIO NYC, founded in 1984 and based in New York City, is a creative agency that focuses on animation, design, and video production. With a team of 16 employees, the agency has carved out a niche in providing innovative solutions for businesses and organizations looking to enhance their advertising and communication strategies. Their portfolio showcases a variety of projects, including collaborations with well-known brands such as Spotify, Chase, and amfAR. The agency emphasizes the importance of art in communication, believing that artists play a crucial role in interpreting culture and delivering meaningful messages. Their work spans multiple formats, including 2D and 3D animation, motion design, and illustration, demonstrating their versatility and commitment to quality. Over the years, the STUDIO NYC has maintained relevance in the industry through a focus on creativity and experimentation, which has allowed them to adapt to changing market demands and client needs.

10. Bernstein & Andriulli

• Website: ba-reps.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: bernstein-%26-andriulli

Bernstein & Andriulli (B&A) is an artist management agency based in New York City, with additional offices in London, Shanghai, and Sydney. Founded in 2015, the agency specializes in representing a range of creative professionals, including photographers, illustrators, animators, and CGI artists. B&A aims to provide high-quality visual solutions to clients in various sectors, particularly fashion and beauty. The agency is part of Great Bowery, which has redefined the traditional agency model by integrating creative strategists with recognized artists. This approach allows B&A to offer comprehensive services from project inception to execution, catering to a clientele that includes some of the world's most iconic brands. Their commitment to inclusivity and collaboration further enhances their role in the creative industry, making them a significant player in artist representation.

11. WB Design

• Website: winn.myportfolio.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Brooklyn, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: wb-design

WB Design, founded in 2002 and based in Brooklyn, New York, is a private graphic design firm that specializes in a range of services including graphic design, packaging, photography, and illustrations. The company, led by Win Naing, caters to both businesses and individual clients, providing tailored solutions for branding and visual communication needs. Their portfolio highlights a variety of projects, showcasing their expertise in effective design and illustration. Notably, WB Design has worked on projects for organizations like UNICEF, demonstrating their capability to handle significant and impactful work in the industry. With a small team of 1-10 employees, the company maintains a focused approach to its projects, allowing for personalized service and attention to detail.

12. Gvo

• Website: goodvibesonlycorp.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2019
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: goodvibesonlycorp

Good Vibes Only Corp, known as Gvo, is a boutique creative agency based in New York City, founded in 2019 by Christine Reilly. The agency specializes in full-service creative production, offering a wide array of services that include art direction, content creation, video production, and notably, illustration. Gvo has worked with a variety of clients across sectors such as retail, health, and entertainment, providing tailored creative solutions that enhance brand visibility. Their portfolio includes collaborations with well-known brands like Trader Joe's, WWE, and This Old House, demonstrating their ability to deliver high-quality creative work. Gvo prides itself on its female-founded ethos and a commitment to fostering positive experiences for clients and collaborators alike. With a small team of dedicated professionals, they leverage over 15 years of industry experience to manage projects from concept to completion, ensuring that each piece of work aligns with the client's vision and goals.

13. Gallery Stock

• Website: gallerystock.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 62%, United Kingdom (UK) 25%, Philippines 12%
• Latest funding: March 2014
• Founded year: 2014
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: gallery-stock

Gallery Stock, founded in 2014 and based in New York City, operates as a creative agency that specializes in stock photography and custom imagery services. The company offers a range of visual content, including Rights-Managed and Royalty-Free images, motion graphics, and illustrations tailored for businesses and creative professionals. Their platform provides curated galleries that feature engaging imagery, and they spotlight both established and emerging talent in the field. Gallery Stock also emphasizes custom shoots, allowing clients to collaborate directly with their team to produce tailored visual content. Their commitment to quality and creativity positions them as a notable player in the stock imagery industry, particularly in the illustration segment.

14. Baa

• Website: baa-global.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: baa-ny

Baa Global, founded in 2018 and based in New York City, is a creative studio that specializes in digital artistry and design services. The company offers a range of services, including animation, sound design, and visual arts, catering to clients in industries such as technology and fashion. Baa collaborates with notable brands like Nike, Apple, and Google, creating impactful visual content that resonates with audiences. Their team consists of skilled artists and directors who bring a wealth of experience in 3D art, visual storytelling, and innovative design. Baa's commitment to pushing the boundaries of digital artistry positions them as a relevant player in the illustration industry, particularly in the context of modern visual communication.

15. JD&Co. Creative

• Website: jdnco.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2014
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: jd%26co-design-studio

JD&Co. Creative is a New York-based design studio founded in 2014. With a team of 11-50 employees, the studio specializes in bespoke design solutions that span branding, packaging, and digital advertising. They work closely with clients from various sectors, including food and beverage, beauty, and retail, to enhance their marketing efforts through creative design. JD&Co. has built a reputation for its collaborative approach, ensuring that each project is tailored to meet the unique needs of its clients. The studio has produced notable work for brands like PepsiCo, Chipotle, and HelloFresh, where they have integrated illustration into their campaigns, demonstrating their expertise in this area. Their commitment to quality and creativity has earned them recognition in the industry, making them a relevant player in the illustration space.

16. KUDOS Design Collaboratory

• Website: kudos.nyc
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Indonesia 74%, United States (USA) 21%, Nigeria 5%
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: studio-kudos

KUDOS Design Collaboratory is a New York-based design agency founded in 2008. With a team of around 39 employees, the agency specializes in providing creative and technological solutions for a variety of clients, including brands, institutions, and nonprofits. Their services range from branding and visual identity to exhibition design and digital experiences. KUDOS has made a name for itself by helping clients effectively engage their audiences and adapt to market changes. The agency has received multiple awards for its work, including recognition from the PRINT Awards and the Society of Publication Designers. Their projects often blend storytelling with design craftsmanship, showcasing their ability to create impactful visual narratives. KUDOS operates internationally, with a significant portion of its workforce based in Indonesia, reflecting a global approach to design.

17. Animazing Gallery

• Website: animazing.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1984
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: animazing-gallery

Animazing Gallery, established in 1984, is an art gallery based in New York City, with a second location in Las Vegas. The gallery specializes in animation and illustration art, offering a curated collection that features works from renowned artists and pop culture icons. Over the years, Animazing Gallery has expanded its offerings to include a wide range of illustration styles, focusing on both classic and contemporary artists. The gallery has become known for its high-quality pieces, including significant works by Charles M. Schulz and Dr. Seuss. Owner Nicholas Leone, who has a rich background in art curation and sales, has played a pivotal role in the gallery's growth and reputation. The gallery also hosts events and exhibitions, contributing to its visibility and engagement within the art community. With a dedicated team and a clear focus on illustration art, Animazing Gallery continues to be a relevant player in the industry.

18. All Good

• Website: allgoodnyc.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Brooklyn, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2014
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: all-good-nyc

All Good NYC is a branding and content creation studio based in Brooklyn, New York, founded in 2014. The company specializes in creative services tailored for the food, beverage, and hospitality industries. Their offerings include branding, graphic design, photography, and social media management. All Good collaborates with various clients to enhance their visual identity and market presence. They have worked with notable names in the industry, such as Andrew Carmellini and Hilton, showcasing their ability to create compelling visual narratives. The studio is also proactive in generating its own projects, indicating a dynamic approach to creativity. They are currently looking for illustrators to collaborate with on a project basis, further emphasizing their involvement in the illustration sector.

19. SJI Associates

• Website: sjiassociates.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1991
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: sji-associates

SJI Associates is a woman-owned creative agency based in New York City, established in 1991. With a team of around 33 professionals, the agency specializes in branding, advertising, and key art, providing strategic creative solutions to a variety of clients, including prominent entertainment brands and non-profit organizations. Over the past three decades, SJI has built a reputation for transforming intricate concepts into visually striking and effective creative work. Their portfolio includes notable projects for major clients like Disney, HBO, and PBS, where they have developed key art and illustrations that capture the essence of the content they represent. SJI Associates prides itself on its collaborative approach, working closely with clients to ensure that their creative output not only meets but exceeds expectations. The agency has received recognition for its work, further solidifying its position in the creative industry.

20. Visual Goodness

• Website: visualgoodness.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: visual-goodness-inc

Visual Goodness is a digital marketing agency based in New York City, founded in 2001. With a team of 11 to 50 employees, the company specializes in content creation and marketing services. Their offerings include 2D and 3D animation, video production, and digital advertising, with a strong emphasis on visual storytelling. Visual Goodness aims to transform business goals into reality through captivating visuals that engage audiences. They have worked with various clients, providing tailored solutions that enhance brand visibility. The company prides itself on its ability to blend creativity with technical expertise, ensuring that their projects not only look good but also deliver results. Their commitment to producing high-quality visual content positions them as a notable player in the illustration industry.

21. Animated Storyboards

• Website: animatedstoryboards.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 45%, Thailand 38%, United Kingdom (UK) 9%, Other 9%
• Latest funding: $6.5M, February 2017
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: animated-storyboards

Animated Storyboards, founded in 2001 and based in New York, is an animation studio that focuses on creating high-quality visual content tailored for advertising and marketing. The company offers a range of services, including animatics, storyboards, and custom animations, which are vital for helping brands and advertising agencies test and refine their creative concepts. With a workforce of over 200 employees, Animated Storyboards has established a global presence, with offices in key locations such as Chicago, Los Angeles, London, and Bangkok. They have worked with notable clients like Budweiser, Miller Coors, and Pepsi, showcasing their capability to handle projects across various platforms, including digital, broadcast, and social media. The company received funding of over $6.5 million in 2017, indicating investor confidence in their business model and growth potential. Their commitment to excellence in production and advanced cinematic technology positions them as a significant player in the animation and illustration sectors.

22. Five Points Graphics LLC

• Website: fivepointsgraphics.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Brooklyn, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: five-points-graphics-llc

Five Points Graphics LLC, founded in 2011 and based in Brooklyn, New York, is a graphic and textile design agency that specializes in custom artwork and CAD services tailored for the fashion industry. The company offers a wide array of print collections that cater to various segments, including activewear, kids' apparel, menswear, and seasonal designs. With a team of over 60 international artists, Five Points Graphics creates trend-right prints and graphics, ensuring that their clients can enhance their product lines with unique and appealing designs. The agency prides itself on its collaborative approach, working closely with clients to understand their specific needs and deliver tailored solutions. Their extensive collection includes over 45,000 original prints, providing clients with exclusive rights to use the artwork for their products. This focus on custom design and CAD services positions Five Points Graphics as a significant player in the illustration and textile design industry.

23. Arcangel Images

• Website: arcangel.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 41%, United Kingdom (UK) 35%, Spain 15%, Other 9%
• Founded year: 2003
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: arcangel-images

Arcangel Images, founded in 2003 and based in New York, is a stock photography company that specializes in high-quality images and illustrations. The company serves various industries, including publishing and design, by offering both rights managed and royalty-free images. Their online platform allows clients to easily access and license the imagery they need, streamlining the process for businesses and organizations. With a workforce of 11-50 employees, Arcangel Images has established a presence not only in the United States but also in the United Kingdom, Spain, Canada, and Poland. This geographic distribution indicates their ability to cater to a global clientele. The company emphasizes quality and creativity in its offerings, which is essential for clients looking for compelling visual content.

24. RF Studio53

• Website: osmosisfilms.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: July 2020
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: osmosis-films

RF Studio53, a corporate entity based in New York City, operates as a creative studio and production company under the umbrella of Ruder Finn. Founded in 2011, the company has built a reputation for its expertise in visual storytelling and multimedia content creation. Their services span a wide array of formats, including animation, documentary production, and digital solutions, catering to clients in sectors such as healthcare, technology, and education. The studio prides itself on its collaborative approach, bringing together a team of designers, animators, writers, and producers to craft compelling narratives. Their work often features illustration prominently, particularly in animated projects and educational content, showcasing their ability to communicate complex ideas through visual means. RF Studio53 has not reported any funding since 2020, indicating a stable operational status without recent external financial backing.

Illustration Companies Insights: Key Companies in New York

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