"What, exactly, are Anthropomorphics?" is the question most people ask upon seeing this publication. The answer is relatively simple -- an anthropomorphic character is any object or animal that is given human-like attributes that they would not normally possess. This type of character is most often seen in today's cartoons, where the industry term "funny animals" is used to describe them.

But when you think about it, you realize that this sort of characterization is all about us; they are used to sell cereals, video games, snack foods, clothing... the use of "funny animals" in advertising has been growing constantly, and shows no sign of abating.

However, unlike other genres, the anthropomorphic character artist occupies a special niche in the industry. Despite the focused need for highly talented artists in this area, advertising agencies and other companies often have very few sources to draw upon for quality artwork. Their normal "stable" of artists aren't really up to the task, as it takes years of very specialized effort to be able to draw animal characters truly well. Often these firms wind up making do with lower quality art than they could have had -- and losing out on sales a more attention-catching character might have brought in.

The Journal was designed to act as a middle ground where demand could find supply, and everyone would benefit thereby. It acts as volumes of "headshots" do for actors -- interested companies and individuals who want to commission an artist from the Journal will find their direct contact information inside -- along with specific rates for illustration, if available... a cost-saving benefit you would find almost nowhere else in the artistic world.

Furthermore, unlike industry "black books" that can charge upwards of $3,000 per page for the "priviledge" of an artist being able to feature his work in them, the American Journal charges the artists that participate nothing. Not one thin dime. It is, for them, a free resource and service.

A concerted effort was made to produce a very high quality product; from the layout and content to the selection of paper, cover stock and binding. We hope you enjoy it, and appreciate your supporting our efforts on behalf of our artists contained within.