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Annual

Illustrators 51
January 7, 2009 through March 28, 2009

The Museum of American Illustration at the Society of Illustrators presents the Annual Exhibition, Illustrators 51 featuring the works of over three hundred of today's top illustrators. From thousands of entries submitted worldwide, a jury of professional peers including illustrators and art directors have chosen the most outstanding works created throughout the year.

Beginning January 7 through March 28, 2009, the Illustrators 51 exhibition is made up of three categorized shows: The Sequential Exhibit (January 7-January 24, 2009) features the year's best multi-image projects including animations by Bill Plympton, comics and graphic novels by John Hendrix, Jessie Hartland, Aya Kakeda, and many more! Original art commissioned by newspapers, magazines and books are on display during the Editorial and Book Exhibit (January 28-February 28, 2009). Featured artists include Sam Weber, Dan Adel, Yuko Shimizu, Jillian Tamaki, Kadir Nelson, Donato Giancola, among others. Artwork created for advertisements, CD covers, posters, greeting cards, and self-promotion are displayed in the Advertising, Institutional and Uncommissioned Exhibit (March 4-March 28, 2009). Artists include Marc Burckhardt, Jody Hewgill, Brad Holland, Frances Jetter, and others.

Medals and Certificates are awarded to the best illustrators, art directors and clients during the Awards Gala and Opening Receptions on January 16, February 6, and March 6, 2009. Tickets are on $30 for non-Society members and are available through the Society of Illustrators.

In conjunction with the exhibition is the published Illustrators 51, an impressive full color annual showcasing all four hundred and fifty-one selected pieces. Today the annual has become the premiere directory of American and International illustration. It's the first print resource art directors look to for hot talent. This massive volume presents not only the years' finest illustration work, but also delves into the ideas behind the art as stated by the artists themselves. Each artist discusses the "how to" and "why" of their art, making this annual not only an impressive showcase, but also a look into the creative process of today's top working illustrators.

A selection of 40 works will also tour U.S. colleges through June 2010 marking the 28th educational traveling exhibition.