DeviantArt, a US-based online community for artists that is backed by design software company Autodesk and video technology producer DivX, has been acquired by cloud-based web development platform Wix.
Wix paid approximately $36m in cash for DeviantArt, including some $3m in assumed liabilities.
Founded in 2000, DeviantArt operates a website that enables artists and designers to share their work with a community of fellow enthusiasts. It currently lists more than 325 million piece of original work uploaded by more than 40 million members.
The company will gain access to Wix’s suit of technology and marketing expertise to improve its offering, while Wix’s designers will receive access to DeviantArt’s community.
Angelo Sotira, co-founder and chief executive of DeviantArt, will join Wix’s management team, while all employees will join Wix. DeviantArt will continue operating out of its current headquarters in Los Angeles.
Autodesk previously invested approximately $10m as part of a strategic deal in 2013, following a $3.5m series A round in 2007 provided by DivX.
Avishai Abrahami, co-founder and chief executive of Wix, said: “Over its 16-year history, DeviantArt has built an impressive online community that is incredibly loyal, highly engaged and regularly produces stunning art and design.
“The DeviantArt community is talented and robust and hungry for additional product expertise. We understand their passion, share their creative vision and are excited to offer the power of the Wix platform to their millions of artists.”