D.C. Art Association records, 1961–1990

Scope and Contents note

Administrative: The series consists primarily of articles of incorporation, notices of tax exemptions, employer identification numbers, first board meeting documentation, as well as membership applications.

Correspondence: The series contains correspondence either to or from Mr. Peter L. Robinson, Jr. or Sylvia Jackson both of whom have served as Presidents of the D.C. Art Association.

Exhibitions: The series contains D.C.A.A. exhibition catalogs, artist biographies, miscellaneous invitations, and a brochure published by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (N.A.S.A.) where Peter L. Robinson, Jr. was employed for over thirty years, and retired as Director of the Graphics and Management Presentations Division.

The series consists of (24) 8x10 photographs, which document D.C.A.A. exhibitions and Robinson's tenure at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (N.A.S.A.)

Arrangement note

The D.C. Art Association records are arranged into four main categories: Administration, Correspondence, Exhibitions and Photographs. Material in each folder is arranged in chronological order by date ranging from 1969 through 1991.

Biographical/Historical note

In 1961 the D. C. Art Education Association, later known as the D.C. Art Association, was founded by the District of Columbia public school art teachers. In 1969 the organization increased its membership by enlisting the support of individuals, as well as community based organizations, and cultural institutions, such as the Anacostia Neighborhood Museum in an effort to promote, encourage and stimulate interest in both the fine and visual arts. Through the strong and diligent efforts of many, the D.C. Art Association commonly referred to as D.C.A.A., successfully made invaluable contributions to the arts by organizing exhibitions, lectures and panel discussions, which furthered the awareness and appreciation of the fine arts to the community at large. Many lives have been cultivated and rewarded by the D.C. Art Associations efforts to support professional artists and implement public programming in the community. Although the D.C. Art Association was disbanded its contributions were a vital catalyst in bringing enrichment and cultural awareness to the art community in Washington, D.C. By upholding its motto, "Dedicated to Foster and Promote the Visual Arts through Community Involvement," the D. C. Art Association has enhanced the lives of many by exploring the African American presence in the visual arts.

Related Archival Materials note

Finding aid to the Edith T. Martin papers