AIGA name
AIGA was founded in 1914 as the “American Institute of Graphic Arts.”
In recent decades, members have encouraged the search for a name that reflects the evolution of the profession from its earliest roots in graphic arts to the varied and diverse ways that AIGA members currently denote themselves and their practices. In the past few years, another urgent request from members has emerged: to help them speak to external audiences about their roles as designers and the value of great design.
In an ongoing quest to fulfill both needs, AIGA’s board and chapter leadership recommended a shift in positioning. The organization has begun using the existing acronym along with a new tagline that better describes AIGA, its members, and their interests instead of using the full name of the organization. “AIGA, the professional association for design” was chosen for its ability to help the organization create a greater understanding of our members’ potential role, the value of their role and importance of their contributions. Retaining the brand equity of the acronym “AIGA” has been a priority, as it preserves a rich legacy of graphic design. By shifting the language away from “graphic arts” and towards “design,” AIGA can achieve greater recognition for design’s role in culture, civic society and business.
AIGA will always be the American Institute for Graphic Arts, and it remains the organization’s legal name. Through members continuing to use the acronym AIGA, it retains the historical significance that recognizes the contributions of every designer of the past 92 years. By providing a clear and contemporary tagline to help current members explain their affiliation, it helps AIGA to be relevant and convey its message to a greater audience.
As always, AIGA encourages members to use the initials “AIGA” after your name in email signatures, business cards and other materials to show your support of the profession and your commitment to the standards for professional practice.
This article was originally published in History and Governance of AIGA.
Posted by richmond in Articles | August 4, 2007
Post a CommentComments (1)
I had no idea that we could put "AIGA" next to our name until someone mentioned this article to me. I work with so many people with a laundry list of acronyms, most of which don't make any sense or really mean anything. For me, it's been more about spreading the word of design. A few people have already asked me what it stands for and I've used the opportunity to explain the value of design. Anytime I can help spread the word, I hope it will make another designer's job a little easier, because we all know the frustration.
Posted by: Kim Spencer on August 14, 2007