The arts are a critical part of New York City’s dynamic cultural, economic, and civic life, from the lights and music of the great white way, to the hundreds of galleries and museums that display some of the most renowned art in the world, this is a city that thrives on the energy of our cultural scene. The arts are also vital to our city’s economy, and as part of a $21 billion creative industry, New York’s illustrators play a crucial role in keeping that field vibrant and alive. This is why we’re proud to recognize their impressive and multifaceted work during illustration week.

Since 1901, the Society of Illustrators has promoted the craft of illustration and encouraged greater public appreciation of their art. With exhibitions and other displays designed to raise their profile of illustration, the Society of Illustrators continues to act as a valuable resource to New York’s arts community. With events including: Illustrators Sketch Night; an exhibition of work from the Summer Illustration Art Academy; and a two-day conference hosted by Parsons the New School for Design and Pictoplasma, Illustration Week will provide all New Yorkers with the opportunity to explore one of the most fascinating art forms.

The week’s events provide an important platform for New York’s illustration community. It’s fitting that this event take place in a city that is so dedicated to advancing the arts, and we look forward to fostering a greater appreciation of the art of illustration.

Now therefore, I, Michael R. Bloomberg, Mayor of the City of New York, in recognition of this important event, do hereby proclaim November 4th to November 13th, 2011 in the City of New York as: ILLUSTRATION WEEK.