Children's Book Illustrators Group
About CBIG
CBIG, Children’s Book Illustrators Group, was formed in 1987 by a group of Brooklyn illustrators to share publishing information and industry experiences. Today, CBIG members are brought together by their interest in producing exceptional artwork and books for children. Our member illustrators and author/illustrators create art for the trade, editorial, and educational markets, and work in product design, licensing, e-books, graphic and web design, fine art, and animation. Many CBIG members also are teaching artists, offering school and library programs. A complete list of our members and contact info is available at our CBIG Members Page.
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CBIG organizes bi-monthly meetings featuring a special guest speaker, with a lottery-system portfolio review for up to six members. We also host an annual portfolio review event in November, for members only. Our guest speakers and portfolio reviewers are industry professionals, such as Illustrators, Editors, Art Directors, Art Reps, and Literary Agents.
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CBIG abides by its own code of conduct and the SCBWI anti-harassment policy.
CBIG FAQ
I would like to learn more about CBIG membership. How do I join?
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Anyone with a demonstrated interest in children’s book illustration may become a member, whether published or not. To learn more, please read our Join CBIG page. If you still have questions, please email us at cbignycillus@gmail.com, and put "Membership" in the subject line.
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Interested in being a CBIG speaker?
If you are an publishing industry professional and would like to be a CBIG guest speaker or portfolio reviewer, please contact Barbara at wavepaint@gmail.com. CBIG provides an honorarium.
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What is the CBIG Annual Portfolio Review?
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CBIG's Annual Portfolio Review is an opportunity for CBIG members to get their work in front of children's book industry professionals. This event usually takes place at the beginning of November. Participation is on a first-come, first-serve basis and requires a separate sign-up fee, usually $40.00. This fee includes two one-on-one reviews with an editor, art director, or agent, for approximately 15 minutes per meeting . Two weeks prior to the event, CBIG members receive an invitation with instructions on how to participate. Historically speaking, there is most likely space for all who want to take part in the Review; but there are no guarantees and some members may be waitlisted.
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I am interested in attending a CBIG meeting. Are meetings open to non-members?
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Yes. CBIG meetings are open to all artists, from neophytes to published pros, who are interested in the field of children’s book illustration. Non-members may pre-register or pay $15.00 at the door. The one exception is that the November portfolio review meeting is for members only. Regular meetings typically take place the second Sunday of every other month, starting in January.
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Non-members also may receive meeting notices via our Yahoo group. To join our Yahoo group, write to vicky@doodlesoop.com with a brief description of your interest in CBIG. The Yahoo group is for those who have attended meetings or plan to, as well as members. It is not for those who have a general interest in children’s books or children’s book publishing–it strictly pertains to our group.
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If you interested in attending a future CBIG meeting, please email cbignycillus@gmail.com. Please put "Meeting" in the subject line.
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