For several years I’ve been a proud member of the National Cartoonists Society. It’s a terrific organization that celebrates cartooning in all its forms, and its membership includes many of the giants in the industry.
Every year the NCS holds a black-tie dinner and gives out several Reuben Awards (named after cartoonist Rube Goldberg) to the top artists in various categories. If it’s possible to combine “prestige” with “funny drawings”, the Reuben awards banquet would be it. Think tuxedos and giant foam cowboy hats.
The NCS just announced the final nominees for 2013 and I’ve been selected in the Advertising Illustration category. Wow! This is a real honor and puts me in some terrific company. The other two nominees this year are Rich Powell and Sean Parkes. The winner will be announced on May 25, 2014 at the Reuben Awards Weekend in San Diego.
We are in the process of selling our house and buying a new one so whether or not I can attend will depend on the timing of our move, but I really hope I can make it. The Reubens is a terrific event and a rare opportunity to rub shoulders with some of the industry greats. Any time you get that many cartoonists together it’s also just plain fun.
While I’m on the subject, the NCS just launched a brand-new website. Check it out. You can also follow the NCS on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.