Executives shaking hands in office setting; kitbash acquires artstation emphasized in digital art context.

KitBash Acquires ArtStation and Sketchfab: What Digital Artists Need to Know

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Written by John Oliver

2026-08-12

ArtStation, home to over 10 million users, has long been a pillar for digital artists showcasing their work online. With Epic Games selling ArtStation and the 3D assets site Sketchfab to KitBash, a change in ownership is occurring. This adjustment has prompted questions about what it means for you, the artist. Amidst these developments, the acquisition marks a significant shift in the digital art community.

Epic Games, well-known for Fortnite and Unreal Engine, announced this sale as part of its focus on other ventures like Unreal Engine 6 and the Epic Games Store. KitBash, known for its 3D assets platforms KitBash3D and Greyscalegorilla, now provides a suite of services from educational resources to production-ready materials.

KitBash Takes Over ArtStation: A New Era Begins

KitBash describes its acquisition as part of a strategy to enrich the creative ecosystem, stretching from artist training to publishing. Their platforms, like KitBash3D, boast rich libraries of 3D assets, while Greyscalegorilla offers tools for designers. With this takeover, they aim to create a more connected and resourceful environment for artists.

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According to Banks Boutté, Co-CEO of KitBash, preserving what artists cherish about ArtStation and Sketchfab is a priority. “These platforms are foundational for artists globally. Our goal is to safeguard user trust and enhance these spaces thoughtfully,” he declared. As KitBash acquires these platforms, these priorities remain at the forefront of their mission.

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For now, nothing changes on your end. You can use your current portfolios, assets, and workflows without interruption. KitBash has pledged to uphold artists’ ownership and creative rights, ensuring continuity in pricing and subscription access. With the transition, they assure users of a seamless experience.

What Lies Ahead for Artists?

Founded in 2014 by Leonard Teo and Kevin Strike, ArtStation thrived under Epic Games by integrating marketplace enhancements. Now, the integration with KitBash3D and Greyscalegorilla promises new avenues for connecting and showcasing artwork. Bill Clifford from Epic Games anticipates expanded opportunities for artists at all stages. With the merger, these opportunities are set to broaden even further.

The transition leaves open-ended questions about long-term platform integration and market dynamics. While many are hopeful for increased exposure, some voice concerns about diminishing competition. The debate continues as some artists urge KitBash to address AI-generated content issues within Epic platforms.

This change in ownership brings a mix of excitement and apprehension. For more updates and developments, you can visit the KitBash website. As a user, your voice and insights are crucial in shaping this evolving ecosystem. The acquisition sets the stage for future innovations in the digital art world.

Source: creativebloq.com

Frequently asked questions

What happens to my ArtStation account after the acquisition?

For now, nothing changes on your end. You can use your current portfolios, assets, and workflows without interruption.

Will KitBash address AI-generated content issues on their platforms?

Some artists urge KitBash to address AI-generated content issues within Epic platforms. However, the article does not state a specific response from KitBash regarding this issue.

Why did Epic Games sell ArtStation and Sketchfab to KitBash?

Epic Games announced this sale as part of its focus on other ventures like Unreal Engine 6 and the Epic Games Store.