4sight Licensing Solutions Named Licensing Agent For Extensive Contemporary Art Collection Inspired By The Works Of Iconic Japanese Artist Hokusai

4sight licensing solutions, a subsidiary of 4Kids Entertainment (NYSE: KDE), has been named worldwide (outside of Asia) Merchandising & Licensing Agent and Brand Manager for a fresh new collection of imagery inspired by the artwork of one of the world’s most prolific and distinctive artists, Katsushika Hokusai, whose portfolio of works created in the 18th and 19 ^th centuries has been celebrated and beloved by generations.

4sight was granted these rights by Effort Co. Ltd., a leading marketing agency with an established reputation in Japan for identifying distinctive brands and developing them through trend-setting products that appeal to targeted contemporary consumer audiences.

The new art series is a transformative reimagining of Hokusai’s extensive original works, including stunning silk paintings, classic woodblock prints, picture books, manga, travel illustrations, paintings, and sketches.

Effort Co.’s modern reinterpretation of this beloved classic artwork has been met with tremendous success in Japan and will be the focus of this extensive and inspired licensing program scheduled to debut in select retailers in North America in 2011.

It is anticipated that an exclusive fashion apparel and accessories collection will be followed by an extensive Home Décor line to include Textiles, Home Accessories and Room Décor. Additional categories will include publishing, stationery and collectibles. Following its North American introduction, the Hokusai-inspired program is expected to roll out across Europe using the same strategy and targeting the same categories. The new Hokusai collection and brand will be introduced at the International Licensing Expo in Las Vegas in June, where branded apparel and accessories from Japan will be showcased in the 4sight Licensing Booth.

Effort Co.’s modern designs inspired by the original Hokusai works are sure to appeal to the fashion-conscious consumer. The collections will be updated regularly with seasonal style guides and fresh color palettes to ensure the line is reflective of current trends and seasonality.