2014 is the centennial of AIGA, marking 100 years since the organization was founded in New York City at the National Arts Club. AIGA's focus and reach have expanded considerably since 1914: from 40 founders to 25,000 members, from a New York club to a nationwide network, and from an institute dedicated to graphic arts to an active community embracing all communication design disciplines.
"The AIGA Centennial is a chance to look back at our roots as designers and to look forward to our growing impact in society," commented AIGA Executive Director Richard Grefé. "But more than that, it's an opportunity to capture the many reasons that design matters."
Celebrations will kick off January 21 with the launch of "100 Years of Design," an interactive exploration of design's rich legacy and growing impact. Visitors to the site are encouraged to learn more about American communication design through significant works, interviews and profiles, and to contribute their own favorite examples.
AIGA's 67 chapters across the United States will celebrate the centennial with dozens of events and activities throughout the year; highlights include exhibitions, networking receptions, parties and celebrations honoring AIGA Fellows. One of the largest celebrations will be "The AIGA Centennial Gala" in New York City, honoring a special class of 24 individuals with the prestigious AIGA Medal for lifetime achievement in design.