The SAA celebrate 32 years
The occasion was marked with a celebratory lunch at the Chelsea Arts Club last Thursday 20th June.
The Society of Artists’ Agents (SAA) was set up in 1992 in response to the Art Buyers Association’s request to co-ordinate a re-use policy for illustration. Despite the preconceived animosity that might be expected in a group of competitors, the outcome was overwhelmingly positive. It was agreed that there was more to be gained working together, and gradually, the organisation took shape with a collective remit to promote and safeguard best practices within the industry for illustration agents, illustrators and clients.
32 years later, the SAA is still going strong and still talking and sharing experiences with each other. The general conversation over lunch last week covered many things about the industry but AI was, of course, a big topic. Andrew Coningsby from Debut Art also updated present members on AI from the BCC’s perspective along with news from the CRA and DACS.
We are very proud to be celebrating 32 years as a society in such a fast paced industry. It’s heart-warming that we’re able to share our experiences with our competitors and fellow professionals and by doing so, we help each other to improve practice and keep the business healthy for all. We believe that together we’re stronger at protecting the work that we love and the artists that we represent.
Caroline Thomson, Arena Illustration
Many SAA members are also members of other organisations such as Agents for Change and, of course, the AOI.
The SAA looks forward to continuing their mentorship programme through the World Illustration Awards (read our most recent update here) and plan to expand their offering in the future through portfolio surgeries and career advice talks.
Find out more about the Society of Artists’ Agents here.
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