Tokyo Illustrators Society (TIS)

What is Tokyo Illustrators Society?

Tokyo Illustrators Society (TIS) was established in October 1988. TIS was founded not merely as an arena for illustrators to get acquainted with each other and exchange ideas but also as a platform to let our society know their capabilities.
There are a total of 223 TIS members as of May 2010.
In order to explore further possibilities of illustration as well as for its future development, TIS has hosted a variety of activities such as exhibitions, open recruitment for the purpose of fostering young people, publishing and research conferences.
The organization is headed by administrative director Mizumaru Anzai, vice presidents Hiroyuki Izutsu and Jun Tsuzuki, and acting director Sugio Yamazaki.

Activities

TIS Exhibitions

Ever since the “1st Tokyo Illustrators Society Exhibition” held in 1989, TIS has continually held exhibitions. TIS has put on a wide variety of shows, sometimes with set themes, materials, formats and spaces to shape each installment. The exhibitions held annually at Creation Gallery G8 since 1995 have provided numerous people with an opportunity to enjoy illustrations.

TIS Competition

TIS accepts work created by a diverse range of people ranging from non-member illustrators to students who aspire to become future illustrators, with the aim of discovering new talent and disseminating ideas and work related to illustration. Open-call started concurrently with the launch of “TIS Yearbook 01-02” in 2001. 2010 saw its 8th installment, and many of the past prize winners have taken their places in the illustration world today.

Publications

TIS is also known for its publishing activities. With the goal of disseminating illustration, TIS publishes exhibition catalogs and books dealing with topics like copyright issues, illustration tools and techniques. Through these books, readers can get to know individual characteristics of illustrators and various activities of TIS.

How to become a member of TIS?

Here are the ways to become a TIS member.

You might be recommended as a member by applying to TIS-hosted open recruitment.
Among prize winners and successful competitors, those who are considered capable and suitable for this position will be nominated as a TIS member.

Supporting members

Here is a list of companies that agree with TIS objectives and support us. Please click the names of the companies to access their websites.

TIS is recruiting new supporting members. For more details, please send an email to TIS head office.