Since 1956, the GDC has been an advocate, voice and resource for Canada's graphic design profession. We are the national certifying body, licensing the CGD certification mark in association with graphic design services, promoting high standards of visual design and ethical business practices for the benefit of Canadian industry, commerce, public service and education. Through the media, publications, seminars, events, conferences and exhibits, the GDC builds awareness of graphic design and its essential role in business and society.
GDC chapters help designers keep on top of changes in the profession, legal, ethical, technological topics, professional issues, current trends, and innovations.
The GDC has more than 1,300 members in 9 chapters across Canada and members at large nationally and internationally. In addition to our professional members, we are also lucky to have several hundred student members. Find out how you can be part of Canada's foremost graphic design association.
Friends and Affiliates of the GDC
The GDC is well-respected internationally. Our organization is a member of the International Council of Graphic Design Associations (Icograda), the worldwide non-governmental body representing graphic designers. This allows our members to attain international recognition, professional development, and a global perspective on graphic design. The GDC is one of the ten largest association members in Icograda, and has been a member since 1974.
The GDC is also allied with the Societe des Designers Graphiques du Quebec (SDGQ), representing graphic designers in Quebec, and the University and College Designers Association (UCDA).
A brief history of the GDC
The GDC was founded in 1956, became a national association in 1974, and was granted a Federal Charter in 1976. In 1996 the GDC’s Ontario Chapters were joined together to create RGD Ontario, Canada’s first accredited body of graphic designers with a legislated title. The GDC celebrated its 50th Anniversary in 2006 with a commemorative stamp from Canada Post.
The Society of Graphic Designers of Canada (GDC) is a member-based organization of design professionals, educators, administrators, students and associates in communications, marketing, media and design related fields.
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La Société des designers graphiques du Canada (DGC) est l’association nationale du design graphique au Canada..jpg)
The GDC serves and promotes the profession
The GDC has a variety of committees which focus on nationally oriented programs and areas of concern.
FAQs about GDC membership, hiring a designer, and becoming a graphic designer.
- All GDC members subscribe to and abide by our code of ethics.
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GDC is Canada's professional organization for graphic designers
Learn more about the GDC
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GDC was the first non-European member of the International Council of Communication Design..png)
GDC's active membership in Icograda contributes to the international design community..png)
Society of Typographic Designers of Canada (TDC) founded in Toronto in 1956 by Frank Davies, John Gibson, Frank Newfeld, and Leslie (Sam) Smart.
The GDC National Executive is voted from the National Council and serve a 2-year term...
The GDC National Executive is voted from the National Council and serve a 2-year term,...
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