Surface Design Association’s mission is to promote awareness and appreciation of fiber art and design through publications, exhibitions, and events.

As a result of a ground-breaking conference in 1976 at the University of Kansas, a group of artists worked to formalize an international organization focused on fiber arts. Committed to educate, inspire, and cultivate opportunities, they formed the Surface Design Association in 1977.

Surface Design Association: Innovation in Fiber, Art, and Design

For nearly 50 years, SDA has been a leader in the field of fiber arts, providing a platform for critical dialogue, innovation, learning, and mentorship. The SDA community is expansive, from makers and artists to academics and enthusiasts.

Through its quarterly publication, the Surface Design Journal, exhibitions, and events, SDA:

• Provides opportunities for learning and meaningful collaboration,
• Mentors and supports emerging and established artists,
• Informs members about the latest developments in the field of fiber arts,
• Recognizes the accomplishments of members,
• Encourages critical dialogue about fiber art,
• Inspires new directions in fiber and textiles,
• Raises the visibility of fibers and textile media in the contemporary art world.

What is surface design anyway and does my work fit? Surface design can be defined as the coloring, patterning, and structuring of fiber and fabric. It is wide-ranging and encompasses paper-making, dyeing, sculpture, stitching, knitting, weaving, embellishing, collage, and so much more. As an organization, we embrace fiber and textiles in the broadest terms including performance, social practice, and sound-based works. Our community encompasses the breadth and depth of contemporary artists and designers working with or inspired by fiber art and/or textile-based materials, methods, and techniques.

To learn more about surface design, check out this interview at the Art League with past SDA president, Candace Edgerly and Julie Booth.

News

Surface Design Association hosts exhibits and events throughout the year. Learn about current events or explore recent SDA events and news below, or visit our newsletter archive.