Thomas Kinkade, 42, is probably the most widely collected artist in history. Media Arts manages the Kinkade license and generated sales of $126 million in ’99 at an enviable 67% gross profit margin. Total retail sales of Kinkade merchandise reached an estimated $250 million. There are now 350 signature galleries with over 4,800 brick and mortar stores selling Kinkade image merchandise. More than 28,000 people belong to the Thomas Kinkade Collector’s Society. Every Kinkade painting bears a hidden letter ‘N’ in honor of his wife Nanette. (The Gazette 8/13/00)
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