German Master Gilder  reveals the secrets of the ancient craft of gold leafing.

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Did you know that Sydney is home to one of the most prestigious gilding studios in the world? Providing classic European craftsmanship and renowned excellence in metal leaf gilding, Art Gilding was founded in 1976 by Brigitte and Karl Eggert – Karl is a Master Gilder who trained as a church restorer and gilder in Cologne, Germany – have undertaken literally hundreds of significant projects in Australia, Europe and Asia, including NSW State Parliament House, the Sydney Town Hall, NSW Government House , Admiralty House, the Stamford Hotel, Singapore and the PETRONAS Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur.

Remember the Golden Chariot of the Sydney 2000 Olympics? They did that, too.

According to Karl, gilding was once a secret craft that was passed on from father to son, but today he enjoys teaching students from across Australia – and the world – from his Art Gilding Academy. “It’s our mission to pass on our considerable skills to anyone who wishes to learn this age-old craft of gilding, and you need no prior knowledge” says wife Brigitte.

The Academy is the only place in the world where students can learn every aspect of gilding in a professional 9 day Master Gilding Class. “During these nine days, our students learn more than they could in a three-year apprenticeship,” says Brigitte, who also runs a weekend class every month for the slightly less ambitious.

The Master Gilding classes are limited to four students per class and everyone who completes also becomes a lifetime member of the Goldfinger Club, which means they receive free ongoing support. “During the year we also invite our Master Class students to join the Art Gilding team on a number of gilding projects to offer them hands-on experience under the watchful eye of the experts,” says Brigitte. “We believe the course not only adds skills to your chosen profession, but also offer the freedom to build up a business and work from home.”

But it doesn’t stop there. The Art Gilding Studio also undertakes work for galleries, antique dealers, artists and the public. In fact, whatever you want gilded, they can do it. “We use a variety of methods,” says Brigitte, “including oil gilding and water gilding, which is known as the Rolls Royce of gilding techniques.” Pure gold leaf, pure silver leaf, faux gold leaf, aluminum leaf, copper leaf, green oxide metal leaf, red oxide metal leaf… they do it all.

You do not have to be a student to purchase gilding materials

For more information, contact Brigitte at the Art Gilding Academy on 02 9310 3007 or have a look at the website: www.artgilding.com.au

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