...Decorative painting is a diverse art form utilizing a variety of techniques and media to decorate functional and
non-functional surfaces.
Because of the systematic methods employed, contemporary decorative painting is a highly teachable art form. The patterns
or freehand designs allow a high degree of success without academic training or inherent drawing ability. Approached with
creativity, discipline and craftsmanship, contemporary decorative painting offers opportunities for artistic self-expression
and creative satisfaction.
The scope of contemporary decorative painting is boundless. Styles and techniques of the past are incorporated
into the trends and materials of the present, while developing the decorative art heritage of the future.
Tole painting is the general term historically used to describe decorative painting on tin surfaces,
especially in New England and by the Pennsylvania Germans. Contemporary decorative painting encompasses not only the folk
art styles of Sweden, Norway, Germany, Russia, England and Mexico, but many facets of Early American decorative painting such
as stenciling, faux finishing, bronzing, gold leafing, country painting, theorem and graining.
....Society of Decorative Painters