Identity elements
Reference code
Name and location of repository
Level of description
Title
Society of Professional Graphic Artists Records
Date(s)
Extent
3 boxes
(2.3 cubic feet)
Name of creator
Biographical history
The Society of Professional Graphic Artists is a trade association for freelance graphic artists. The Seattle chapter was established in 1955 under the name Art Studio Association of Seattle. In 1972, the group renamed again to Professional Art Studio Association and become the Society of Professional Graphic Artists (SPGA) in 1974. SPGA members voted to join the Graphic Artists Guild in 1993, changing the final name to SPGA Seattle Chapter of the Graphic Artists Guild. The group hosted educational events and art showcases including ArtJam, an exhibit of local artists, and workshops on copyright law, royalty-free artwork, and how to attract more clients. The SPGA offered legal and health services to paying members and focused on fair business practices and ethics regarding treatment of independent artists.
Content and structure elements
Scope and content
Includes newsletters, meeting minutes, and operational documents related to the Society of Professional Graphic Artists. Most information is focused on the Seattle chapter but documentation on the history of the organization nationally is also included.