The National Cartoonists Society (Since 1946): Celebrating the Evolution of Cartoon Art

The National Cartoonists Society (NCS) stands as a beacon for professional cartoonists in the United States, fostering camaraderie, artistic excellence, and social engagement since its inception in 1946. Founded by visionary artists who sought to entertain troops during World War II, the NCS has evolved into a prestigious organization representing various branches of the cartooning profession. In this comprehensive article, we will journey through the history, mission, contributions, and impact of the National Cartoonists Society, exploring its role in shaping the landscape of American cartooning.

Origins and Early Years:

The National Cartoonists Society traces its roots to the early 1940s when a cadre of cartoonists, including Gus Edson, Otto Soglow, Clarence D. Russell, Bob Dunn, and others, entertained troops with chalk talks at hospitals for the USO. These performances, organized by choreographer Toni Mendez, planted the seeds for what would later become the NCS. Inspired by their shared passion for cartooning and camaraderie, the group formed a formal organization to continue their gatherings beyond the war.

On March 1, 1946, 26 cartoonists gathered at the Barberry Room on East 52nd Street in Manhattan to establish what was initially known as The Cartoonists Society. Rube Goldberg was elected the first president, leading a roster of esteemed artists, including Milton Caniff, Ham Fisher, Harry Haenigsen, Bill Holman, and many others. Thus, the National Cartoonists Society was born with a mission to advance the ideals and standards of professional cartooning in its myriad forms.

Mission and Objectives:

The National Cartoonists Society is committed to advancing the art of cartooning while fostering a sense of community and intellectual exchange among its members. The organization’s primary objectives include:

1. Promoting artistic excellence: The NCS aims to uphold the highest standards of craftsmanship and creativity in cartooning, recognizing outstanding achievements through its prestigious awards and honors.

2. Fostering camaraderie: Through regular meetings, events, and gatherings, the NCS provides a platform for cartoonists to connect, collaborate, and share insights and experiences with their peers.

3. Engaging with the public: The NCS seeks to promote awareness and appreciation of the art of cartooning among aspiring cartoonists, students, and the general public, inspiring future generations of artists and enthusiasts.

4. Supporting charitable causes: The NCS is actively involved in philanthropic efforts, leveraging the talents and resources of its members to raise funds and awareness for various charitable organizations and initiatives.

Membership and Diversity:

Membership in the National Cartoonists Society is open to established professional cartoonists working in diverse fields, including advertising, animation, comic strips, editorial cartoons, graphic novels, greeting cards, illustration, and more. While the organization historically had limitations on female membership, efforts have been made recently to promote diversity and inclusion within its ranks.

In 1950, following a challenge by cartoonist Hilda Terry, the NCS admitted its first female members—Terry, Edwina Dumm, and Barbara Shermund—breaking gender barriers and paving the way for greater inclusivity in the organization. Today, the NCS continues to welcome cartoonists from all backgrounds, genres, and artistic styles, enriching its community with diverse perspectives and voices.

Contributions and Outreach:

Throughout history, the National Cartoonists Society has significantly contributed to the art form of cartooning and society. From entertaining troops during wartime to raising funds for charitable causes, NCS members have used their talents to uplift and inspire audiences worldwide.

One of the most notable contributions of the NCS is the establishment of the Reuben Award, also known as the Outstanding Cartoonist of the Year award. Presented annually at the NCS Awards Weekend, the Reuben Award recognizes excellence in cartooning and celebrates the achievements of the industry‘s brightest talents. Additionally, the NCS sponsors various division awards honoring excellence in newspaper strips, comic books, animation, editorial cartoons, and more.

In addition to its awards program, the NCS is actively involved in community outreach and engagement. The organization conducts educational initiatives, workshops, and mentorship programs to nurture emerging talent and promote interest in cartooning among aspiring artists and students. Moreover, the NCS regularly participates in charitable events, auctions, and fundraisers to support worthy causes and give back to the community.

Conclusion:

The National Cartoonists Society is a testament to the enduring power of humor, creativity, and camaraderie in cartooning. For over seven decades, the NCS has been a beacon for professional cartoonists, fostering artistic excellence, promoting camaraderie, and engaging with the public through its myriad programs and initiatives. As the organization continues to evolve and adapt to changing times, its legacy of laughter and artistic innovation will undoubtedly endure, inspiring future generations of cartoonists and bringing joy to audiences worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the National Cartoonists Society:

1. What is the National Cartoonists Society (NCS)?

The National Cartoonists Society is an organization of professional cartoonists in the United States, founded in 1946. It serves as a hub for cartoonists working in various branches of the profession, including advertising, animation, comic strips, comic books, editorial cartoons, and more.

2. What is the mission of the National Cartoonists Society?

The primary purposes of the NCS are to advance the ideals and standards of professional cartooning, promote social and cultural interchange among cartoonists, and stimulate interest in and acceptance of the art of cartooning by aspiring cartoonists, students, and the general public.

3. Who can become a member of the National Cartoonists Society?

Membership in the NCS is limited to established professional cartoonists, although there are exceptions for outstanding individuals in affiliated fields. Cartoonists working in various genres and artistic styles, including comic strips, animation, editorial cartoons, and graphic novels, are welcome to apply for membership.

4. How does the National Cartoonists Society support diversity and inclusion?

While the NCS historically had limitations on female membership, efforts have been made recently to promote diversity and inclusion within the organization. The NCS welcomes cartoonists from all backgrounds and genres, striving to enrich its community with diverse perspectives and voices.

5. What are some of the critical contributions of the National Cartoonists Society?

One of the most notable contributions of the NCS is the establishment of the Reuben Award, also known as the Outstanding Cartoonist of the Year award. Additionally, the NCS sponsors various division awards honoring excellence in newspaper strips, comic books, animation, editorial cartoons, and more. The organization also engages in community outreach, educational initiatives, and charitable events.

6. How does the National Cartoonists Society recognize artistic excellence?

The NCS recognizes artistic excellence through its annual awards program, including the Reuben Award for Outstanding Cartoonist of the Year and division awards for various cartooning categories. These awards are presented at the NCS Awards Weekend, where members gather to celebrate the achievements of the industry’s brightest talents.

7. What role does the National Cartoonists Society play in charitable efforts?

The NCS is actively involved in philanthropic endeavors, leveraging the talents and resources of its members to raise funds and awareness for various charitable organizations and initiatives. Cartoonists participate in auctions, fundraisers, and events to support worthy causes and give back to the community.

8. How can I learn more about the National Cartoonists Society and its activities?

To learn more about the National Cartoonists Society, its members, events, and initiatives, you can visit the official NCS website at www.nationalcartoonists.com. Additionally, you can follow the NCS on social media platforms for updates and news related to the organization and its members.