DigitalCommons@RISD

RISD’s Archives collects, preserves and provides access to records and artifacts, including photographs and publications that document the history and development of RISD programs, policies and procedures and contributions of individuals and organizations associated with the School and Museum. Records in the Archives date from RISD’s founding in 1877 to the present.

The Archives is located on the second floor of 15 Westminster and use of the collection is available on site by appointment with the Archivists (401 709-5920). Scholars outside the RISD community may also send requests for information in writing; a fee may be charged for services.

The Rhode Island School of Design Archives was established in 1997, to collect and provide access to the historic materials related to the School and the The RISD Museum that document their development and programs and illuminate the contributions of individuals and organizations associated with RISD. The Archives collections are a unique and valuable resource for understanding and appreciating the significant role that RISD has played in teaching and advancing the disciplines of art, design, and art education--regionally, nationally, and worldwide--since its founding in 1877.

Materials in the Archives collections include administrative records for the College, office files of past Presidents, records of former Museum Directors and Museum exhibition files, Board of Trustees records dating to the founding, biographical files for current and former faculty, historic student records and select examples of student work, information on alumni, photographs, audio- and videotapes, film, plans and other documentation for RISD buildings, scrapbooks, publications including student newspapers, printed ephemera, artifacts, and several collections of personal papers of individuals associated with RISD.

The Archives is open to researchers by appointment. Hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30am-4:30pm. Information on some of the Archives processed collections can be found on the RISD Library Catalog. Please note that the Archives has policies governing the use of its collections and the use of certain records and collections may be restricted.