David Goldman Agency | Why We Like David

There have been few people in my business or personal life that I owe more favors than David Goldman. And since I have known David since high school, I'm not sure I want to say how many years of payback I owe him. The thing about David is that, he's not the kind of guy who wants or seeks payback. For him the connection, the favor is what it's all about. It's his joy and passion. When I've had the occasion to work with David's many talented artists – though professional limitations have not provided nearly enough opportunities to do so – David has come through time again, on time, on budget, and with work exactly as requested.

When you do business with David, everything is so easygoing, it hardly feels like business at all. Conversations are just that. In fact, if you've had a hard-nosed negotiation with David, you wouldn't know it. That's how pleasant it is to work with him. He's intelligent, honest, true to his word and kind. If I could wave a wand and make people everywhere into what I'd want them to be, they'd all be like David Goldman.

－Jeff Linder, Creative Director
The Fresh Produce Group/Agency212

David's direct and clear guidance, along with his vast experience, really helped me to fine tune my skills when submitting and negotiating my own contracts. After soliciting him to assist me on bidding two large packaging jobs, I was able to increase my fees, one of which was the largest fee I have ever made on an illustration in my 25-year plus career. I also gained additional knowledge of the right questions to ask, improved my personal contract, and as a bonus, developed a friendship with this kind and generous man.

－Cathie Bleck

When I think of David... I see a great big heart... that's right, a great big heart sitting in a swivel chair, surrounded by the art of many, and a few muppets hanging around in the background, toasting the good life...

－Richie Havens

From my first phone conversation with David, I knew that this was going to be an interesting relationship. I had phoned David to ask for his help in finding an illustrator who could represent my client's visual identity system for all of their print and online communications. I was working from home on that particular day. David heard my infant daughter crying in the background. Before even discussing the business at hand, David took a genuine interest in the background noise. He immediately wanted to know her name, her age, which parent she resembled, whether she was on formula or breast-fed! (Yes, I thought that was a weird question also). In a seamless, informative and fun conversation, we discussed the answers to his questions, touched on other topics, and proceeded to the initial matter of my call.

David has a way of making you feel like you've known each other for years upon your first introduction to him. He has an authentic desire to learn the human side of the business contact. That sensitivity in finding the humanity makes David special and unique in his approach to business. My role for this particular project with David was to act as the liaison in search of an illustrator for my client, based on some very particular criteria. It was a long challenging, and a very stressful process. Throughout the entire ordeal, David was gracious, positive and energetic. He was able to anticipate my concerns and offer a solution. He was determined to help his talent (and me). In the final stages of the search, my client had "basically" picked David's illustrator for the project. I relayed the exciting news.

The very next day my client changed directions and David's talent was out. Devastated and upset I had to tell David the news. I didn't want to make the call. I felt this surprising change would lead David to infer I had misled him along the whole process. Contrary to my concerns, David was the consummate professional and cordial about the matter, putting my mind at ease. At my most stressful point in the process, David helped me with his positive energy and objective view. He understood the state of affairs completely, but began working on changing them in order to help his talent. With his persistence, and my nudging, we got the fickle client to change their mind.

David forges ahead with a well-executed business strategy, sensitive and receptive to the client's inclination. In the process, he has created long-term relationships, important to business and everyday life.

－Renee Malfi, Brand Director, CoreBrand

I first met David when I was Art Director at The New York Times. Our deadlines were sometimes only hours or a day away and I was told David was the man to call for the most reliable art. I learned that he is a man of his word, responsible and always managing expectations. Now as an art director for TIME magazine, I've had many more opportunities to work with David and win awards – for work produced by his artists. Every project, and I mean EVERY project, has left me looking good. He works with the most talented creative professionals.

It's nice to deal with a businessman who is a creator at heart, for we speak a common language. Work with David and you'll know your project will go smoothly.

－Andrea Costa, Time Inc.

Just a note to say what an unexpectedly important event your visit became. Far from being a straightforward visit from a rep, we (students and faculty) were treated to a talk which I am certain was a life-enhancing event for many people in the audience, AND you gave an afternoon of portfolio reviews which were so appreciated by all of the students.

I personally, will not forget your lecture. I learned so much from it, and it has reinforced my own direction. I want to thank you, on behalf of the Illustration Department for giving your time and advice so freely. There was so much enthusiastic talk in the classrooms in the days after your departure. You gave the students a real "heads up" on the tough reality of life as a freelancer, but you also gave out so many positive messages about creativity and working with people, that everyone was inspired. Thanks again. Sincerely,

－Allan Drummond, Chair of Illustration,
Savannah College of Art and Design

Out of the hundreds of great qualities about David I've noticed during the past 28 years I've known him, these stand out:

1.   Never stops joking! The one-liners never stop whether sitting in an intimate restaurant, a business meeting or quiet museum. The only thing even more hilarious is when we're together, because then I can't stop either.

2.   Very talented musician. David is a highly talented and professional musician. I've heard him play his own compositions on the piano that are profound, meaningful and emotional. I've played drums my entire life, and I can confirm that his drumming skills are sky-high whether he's playing Rock or Jazz.

3.   Looks at the bright side of everyone and everything No matter what happens in life, David looks at the positive side. He sees the good in people where no others can.

4.   Passionate about everything he does. David shows personal excitement and satisfaction in everything he does. Whether selling creative work, playing drums for a talented band, building a Web site or speaking about another person – his great exhilaration and enthusiasm is always very contagious.

5.   Always a true friend. No matter who you are, or how much David has touched your life, it's hard to imagine him not doing everything he can to help you even after you've not been in touch for a long time. You may think he forgot about you, but from nowhere you'll get a call about something he's done to make your life better.

－Joseph Notovitz, Principal, Notovitz Communications

A number of years ago my magazine redesign business came to an abrupt end. After I exhausted my rolodex I realized that I would have to start looking in new and unusual places. That's when David Goldman, artist's rep for some of the most talented illustrators on the market, and himself energetically the equal of the people he handles, came to mind. I called him: "Look David, I know this isn't your business, but I thought I'd just put it out there that I really need some work – in other words, help!"

It was either later that day or the very next day that David called back. "I just had lunch with an editor at Book-of-the-Month Club who mentioned that she's looking for an art director. I recommended you to her because I think you two would work well together." That was the beginning of one of the best gigs that I've had in the industry. The amount of business that I gave David could never repay him for that introduction. Besides, that's not what he's about.

－Austin Metze, Metze Publication Design

Why I like David? Hmmn, let me see... My relationship with David began when I was an associate art director at Window Sources Magazine in 1994, a time when illustrator reps would knock on your door, literally and figuratively speaking, and meet with you to show their artists' work. From the beginning, I had a feeling that my relationship with David Goldman Agency (DGA) was going to be long term, because they operated by being polite, excited, and a pure sense of understanding your assignment. The group of artists the DGA represents is top-notch and cutting edge. No job is too small, or too big. DGA is always ready to work with your budget, and I never feel as though DGA wants to nickel and dime me.

David and I have become friends since that first meeting in 1994, and I have enjoyed our friendship to this day. Whether I call David for an assignment, or to talk about life, he has always welcomed me into his day. It is people like David that give the industry a good name, and knowing he is on the job, and ready to talk with you about anything is a great feeling.

－Roger J. Greiner, Art Director/Publisher

Over the 15 years that I've known David, he's proven his professionalism by demonstrating sincere commitment, the loyalty to the artists he represents, and the meaningful connections he develops with his clients. He's a rare one who successfully builds bridges between his clients and artists on emotional, intellectual and artistic levels. Thus his staying power and good connections throughout this ever-changing industry are simply remarkable.

－Zulal Z. Biner, Associate Art Director
Better Homes and Gardens

Wow, I don't even know where to begin singing David's praises. I've known David for more years than I can even remember (over 30 probably), through my work at two agencies and some very small start-up ventures. I do remember though I met him through one of his now major, client artists, Norm Bendell. David, while never getting rich on my clients' projects, always treated us as if we were his biggest client. We only used Norm through David for clients such as World Yacht, The Financial News Network, and Program Flea Control. Norm also designed and provided the art for our own agency, Bergelt Litchfield, brochure and advertising trade ads – now that's real proof that these guys will never retire on our income. I like to think that David and I have become good friends over the years, even though I haven't sent business his way in a millenium, now that I'm involved in ventures outside of the agency world. David is one of the special people who always is upbeat, optimistic, and keeps in touch. Whenever he calls he is either looking for fresh new jokes or has one to tell you. Beyond his creativity and sales ability he has a very caring and giving side as witnessed by the many emails dealing with charitable and/or patriotic news and events.

－David Venghaus, President and CEO
Performance MediaWorks LLC

Always ready to pull the trigger with a new joke (no moldy figs). Knows the business, but he always keeps it light. A true pleasure to deal with. Besides, a guy who eats nothing but nuts, bark and seaweed can't be all bad. Those artists are lucky to have a guy who puts his heart into it.

－John Bergstrom, Hiillstream LLC

As an Art Director and then a studio owner, I have worked with David and his staff for close to 20 years. His illustrators are of the highest caliber and he is a true professional. I consider him part of the team whenever we work together, helping to provide solutions to difficult illustration problems that we have to solve for our clients.

Whenever we take on a redesign or launch of a new publication, the David Goldman Agency is someone I can count on to deliver a home run when I need it most. He and his network are our go-to guys when we need to make a strong impression. His focus has always been on the work and not the budget, which is rare in today's 'bottom line' world.

－Les McCarthy, Director, Touch Three

"Let me count the ways" – I would be honored to share my perspective: David and I met over the telephone via my interest in retaining a unique, eclectic and creative design artist or group of artists. Our initial conversations were insightful and meaningful, as opposed to self-serving and edgy. I quickly felt comfortable discussing conceptual ideas and perspective timelines. Even though our project has faced a few delays, David has remained communicative and shared many avenues of activity and potential involvement. I am confident we will accomplish much as a result. I've encountered many professionals with a variety of backgrounds, several would do themselves justice to adapt his skill set and accommodating personality. David, thank you for all you've done.

－Keven Davick

What can be said about David Goldman, besides the fact that he is a pleasure to work with, represents some serious talent both here and abroad, and I can depend on him to make sure my artistic needs are met. Personally I love corresponding with David. He's an extremely friendly guy, and more often than not, when I call to commission artwork, we end up talking about music (a mutual love for both of us), New York, or a totally random subject that sometimes overshadows the whole reason for the call in the first place! I always look forward to the next time I need to dial his number or shoot him an email.

－Julie Fanning, Art Director
The New Physician Magazine

I've just returned from the oilfields in Texas testing our new water filtration product, and before anything else I've got to mention David's passion for protecting our environment. I want to say how great and responsive he was in helping us launch our new website under an impossible time frame and to thank him for introducing us to Joe Notovitz. But he didn't stop there. He went on to engineer a world class product for us by clearly relaying my ideas to James Yang.

－Dennis McGuire, CEO, Ecospheres Technologies

For me, a call to David is a call to a trusted friend. No matter how busy he is, it's relaxed and reliably pleasant. His insight and advice lead to enhanced solutions and his flexibility makes life in the laid-back, stress-free ad business even easier.

Our firm does a fair amount of work with Norm Bendell through Goldman's agency, the interaction with Norm is also a delight. These talented, intelligent folks get it right and make it fun in the process.

－Dan Susslin, Messer Susslin & Others

I have worked with David Goldman for the past 4 years and it's been a TRUE pleasure!!!! From the first phone call I liked him and felt really comfortable talking with him. I've never met David in person, but I feel like I've known him for 50 years. He is the most sincere, ethical and kind businessman I've ever dealt with. He always knows what's best for my organization and he proves it each and every time. David really gets to know his customers and he has a gift for turning customers into friends. I truly believe what he tells me he would tell his own mother – because it's the truth! That's why I like David Goldman!

－Becky Young, Marketing Director

David is my edge when competing against other artists for a project. Through our partnership, we have landed major assignments and budgets that I know I could not have acquired on my own. It's amazing what he has been able to achieve negotiating on my behalf – even convincing a client to bring a cancelled dream project back to life. One of the things that I love about David is that my clients are as impressed with him as I am. Like me, they appreciate and frequently rely on his vast knowledge of the business.

－Timothy Cook, Illustrator