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 2001 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 out ties still remain strong, with many of their members retaining membership of our Guild.

Decoupage Guild Australia Inc. has members throughout the country and we believe the growth both artistically and technically of Decoupage in Australia is assured.