Due to the volume of inquiries regarding SAIC alumni and the nature of our records, alumni research can take a considerable amount of time. Listed below are some ideas and resources to assist you:

The Ryerson and Burnham Libraries - Art Institute of Chicago
Online, find links to full text publications and catalogs on the "Gateway" page: Art Institute publications

Resources if you are in Chicago and will visit the Ryerson and Burnham Libraries:

• "Ryerson Index,” Ryerson & Burnham Library clips/microfilm/etc. (located behind reception desk)
• Many of the Chicago Artists books (on open shelves)
• "Who’s Who” (Reading room)
• Library systems & online catalog
• "Biographical data sheets” (microfilm on 2M in archives)
• "Former faculty files” (stack B/archives)
• ‘Card catalog’ in Microfilm Room
• "Card catalog" from Art Institute of Chicago Registrar (Prizes etc./Brown cabinet/2M/Archives)

The Illinois Public Libraries
Has resources on researching artists and public records as well as books available via interlibrary loan.
One resource in particular, which may be helpful:
A Biographical Dictionary of Painters and Sculptors in Illinois 1808-1945, Esther Sparks V. 1-2

Newberry Library
Has a wealth of genealogy information. Free and open to the public.

Chicago Historical Society
Visit the Museum archives or search their records online.

Chicago Newspapers - Archives
Search the archive pages online for the Chicago Tribune, Chicago Sun-Times, etc.

Illinois State Board of Education
Absorbed all the records from The Academy of Fine Arts after it closed. Please note the contact information below:

Illinois State Board of Education
100 N. First Street
Springfield, IL 62777
tel. (217) 782-4365

Art Institute of Chicago - Archives
Archives’ Chronological Exhibition History page on AIC website has individual catalogs available in digital format for two important series of AIC catalogs:

• The American show (75 exhibitions between 1888-1985)
• The Chicago show (81 exhibitions between 1897-1985)

If you need further support in your research, please contact the Alumni Relations Office and we will respond to your inquiry as soon as possible.