The National Cartoonists Society poster was produced by the National Cartoonists Society in the USA in 1970. Featured on the poster are 313 profile images in caricature style of members of the National Cartoonists Society at the time, compiled by McGowan Miller.
The National Cartoonists Society (NCS) emerged from informal gatherings of cartoonists who entertained troops during World War II. Finding camaraderie and a shared passion, these artists formalized their association on the 1st of March 1946, in New York City, USA. Initially known as The Cartoonists Society, it quickly evolved into the National Cartoonists Society, reflecting its growing membership and ambitions. The organization’s early days were marked by a spirit of mutual support and a desire to elevate the art of cartooning. Esteemed cartoonist Rube Goldberg was elected as the first president, setting a precedent for leadership within the profession.
The core mission of the NCS is to advance the ideals and standards of professional cartooning in its diverse forms. It aims to foster social, cultural, and intellectual exchange among cartoonists working across various fields, including comic strips, comic books, editorial cartoons, animation, illustration, and more. Beyond its members, the NCS is dedicated to stimulating and encouraging interest in cartooning among aspiring artists, students, educational institutions, and the broader public. While not a union, the society has historically advocated for members’ rights and frequently uses its collective talent to support charitable causes and national initiatives.
A highlight of the National Cartoonists Society’s activities is the annual Reuben Awards, which honor outstanding achievements in the field. The most prestigious of these is the Reuben Award for Outstanding Cartoonist of the Year, considered the highest honor bestowed by the profession. Introduced in 1954 and named after the society’s first president, Rube Goldberg, the award recognizes exceptional talent and contribution to the art form. In addition to the Reuben, the NCS presents Divisional Awards acknowledging excellence in specific areas of cartooning, as well as the Milton Caniff Lifetime Achievement Award and the Silver T-Square for service to the society and the profession. The annual Reuben Awards weekend serves as a major event for networking, celebration, and recognizing the best in cartooning.
Membership in the National Cartoonists Society offers numerous benefits for professional cartoonists. It provides opportunities to connect and network with peers, including some of the most accomplished creators in the industry, fostering a supportive and collaborative environment. Members receive invitations to regional chapter events and the annual Reuben Awards weekend. The NCS also facilitates opportunities for members to showcase their work at major comic conventions and offers discounts on products from cartooning-related companies. For young professionals under 28, “The 27 Club” offers a significantly discounted membership rate, encouraging the next generation of cartoonists. Overall, the NCS serves as a vital organization for the cartooning community, promoting excellence, fostering connections, and celebrating the art of visual storytelling.
The National Cartoonists Society poster measures 64″ x 11″ printed on semi heavy stock pink toned paper. It was distributed folded in 7 due to it’s long length, with the societies logo seen amongst the images, found just to the left off-center on the poster. All caricature profile images are illustrated in black adjoining the signature/name of the person featured. The poster can be seen below.
As the Phantom creator Lee Falk was a member of the National Cartoonists Society, he makes an appearance on the poster. A closer look of his caricature profile images can be seen below.
Other creators, writers and artists featured on the National Cartoonists Society poster include Bil Keane, Charles Schulz, Dan Spiegle, Chic Young, Chester Gould, Hal Foster, Willard Mullin, Joe Kubert, Al Williamson, Paul Terry, Milton Caniff, Jim Ivey, Rube Goldberg, Basil Wolverton, Walt Kelly, Bob Montana, Al Capp, Stan Lee, and Creig Flessel.
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