Aims of the Guild
- Encourage the highest standard of decoupage
- To share knowledge and experiences
- To encourage participation in exhibitions and displays
- To provide advice and assistance to all members
History
- As with all traditions and art forms there are many theories and beliefs as to the origins of Decoupage, however the most popular belief is that Decoupage originated in the 18th Century in Italy as an alternative to oriental decorated lacquer work.
- The technique was refined & developed by Venetian Artisans who at the time were regarded as authorities of this artform, originally known as Lacca Povera (poor man’s lacquer).
- The popularity of this art form flourished in France and enthusiasts called this Decoupage a derivative of the French word decouper meaning ‘to cut ’.
- Today there are many publications on Decoupage available. These publications encompass a variety of styles and periods used in this artform but in the end you create what pleases your eye and senses. Traditional 18th Century Decoupage requires a painted background, paper cut outs to form a design, lacquering and sanding to acquire a finished effect of fine porcelain.
- Here in Australia we owe a great debt to a small number of Decoupage enthusiasts. In 1977, Val Lade began researching this art-form which was virtually unknown in Australia. After experimenting with lacquers and abrasives to find the most suitable for Victoria’s climate she began teaching Decoupage at the Caulfield Arts Centre.
- One of Val’s earliest students, Kathleen Mulraney envisaged a Guild for decoupeurs in Australia, having visited the National Guild of Decoupeurs in U.S.A. In 1984, the Decoupage Guild Australia (a non-profit organization) was formed in Melbourne by a group of ten enthusiasts with Kathleen our first president. The Guild flourished.
- Today in 2011, we experience the legacy of these early pioneers of Decoupage in Australia.
- In 1997 members of our Guild residing in New South Wales and Queensland formed their own respective state Decoupage Guilds but our ties still remain strong, with many of their members retaining membership of our Guild.
- Decoupage Guild Australia Inc. has members throughout the country as well as Overseas and we believe the growth both artistically and technically of Decoupage in Australia is assured.
Milestones for the Guild
- Founded in Melbourne 1984
- In 1997 the Guild encouraged and supported the creation of state Guilds in Queensland and New South Wales.
- First Exhibition was held in 1985
- The first Artist in Residence was Anne White in 1993
Something you should know
- We hope you enjoy our website as we aim to make the art of Decoupage better recognized throughout the world.