The fine art of illustration on display at BAYarts

A collage of the works of NOIS artists on display at BAYarts March 6-April 3.

“The Best of NOIS” opens in BAYarts' Sullivan Gallery on Friday, March 6, and runs through April 3. Comprised of illustrators, fine artists, designers, students and instructors, Northern Ohio Illustrators Society (NOIS) formed more than 20 years ago when a group of Cleveland area illustrators, faced with rapid changes in their field, felt a need to get out of the studio, meet in an informal setting and exchange points of view.

With a focus on artistic excellence and smart business practices, the group began meeting regularly and inviting various local artists to speak on a variety of topics, such as marketing, promotion and business issues from contracts to copyrights. NOIS is committed to bringing in national talent once a year to speak at the Cleveland Institute of Art, which speaks to NOIS’ mission of mentoring to emerging illustrators. 

NOIS has more 30 members who meet regularly for support and inspiration. Besides interaction with colleagues and other professionals, members participate in members-only gallery exhibitions, have the opportunity to be included in exclusive promotional materials, like directories and calendars, as well as a link to their portfolio page on the NOIS website.

But possibly the best perk, members will agree, is keeping the conversation lively and the creative juices flowing by getting out of the studio and interacting with like-minded illustrators. Occasions such as “4th Wednesdays” at NANO Brew in Ohio City provide opportunities for socializing, drawing and talking shop.

For a more in-depth conversation with some of the illustrators, there will be a gallery talk on Sunday, March 22, 2 p.m., in the Sullivan Gallery.