Our members include graphic and communication designers, new-media designers, art directors, students, design educators, and associates from communications, marketing, media and other design-related fields.

We’re Professional
The GDC is the only national association in Canada for our profession. Graphic and communication designers specialize in structuring and organizing visual information. Whether you prefer paper or pixels, the GDC is for you.

We’re Canadian
Formed in Toronto in 1956, the GDC depends on strong local chapters for its initiatives and energy. Our national communications network facilitates an ongoing exchange of ideas and information for designers and businesses. Through publications, seminars, awards shows, events and exhibitions, the GDC builds awareness of the importance of graphic design in Canada.

We’re Connected
The GDC is recognized around the world as Canada's premier resource for graphic design. Along with 55 other countries, the GDC is a member of the International Council of Graphic Design Associations (Icograda). In addition to our relationship with Icograda, GDC members benefit from reciprocal offers with other design organisations such as AIGA. We also have formal alliances with the Société des designers graphiques du Québec (SDGQ) and University and Colleges Designers Association (UCDA). GDC membership opens the door to other design associations around the globe.

We’re Principled
Our Code of Ethics guides our members in their professional practice, ensuring fair balance between the needs of our members, clients, profession and world. The GDC Code of Ethics recognizes our professional responsibility and our commitment to taking a courageous role in areas where graphic designers are influential. We are proud that our Code assists designers in establishing fair relationships with clients, colleagues, employers, society and the environment.

We’re Visionary

In April 2009, delegates at the AGM of the Society of Graphic Designers of Canada unanimously adopted a unique set of sustainability principles and values for governance, a first for a national design organization in North America. The GDC National Sustainability Committee uses these adopted principles and values to help guide, develop and implement resources and programs. The Committee also wrote and adopted a clear definition for sustainable communication design, again a first in North America, and works with other environmental organizations to support the evolving practice of design communication.

Find out more of the benefits of membership

Join Now