Date of the first organizational meeting:

November 18, 1983 in Atlanta, GA.
The Stencil Artisans League, Inc. (SALI) was incorporated January 10, 1984 in the state of Georgia.

Original statement of philosophy:

As stated in the articles of incorporation: To cultivate, foster, encourage and promote interest and participation in the art of stenciling; to promote the improvement and advancement of the state of the art of stenciling both as to methodology and finished processes; to inform members of activities in the art; and to do all things necessary for the advancement of the art.

In 1986 an amendment to this description of the League was accepted by the Board of Directors. The League now refers to itself as an educational organization to qualify for 501(c)(3) non-profit status in the guidelines established by the IRS.

First mission statement:

Founded in 1984, the International Decorative Artisans League (SALI) is an organization dedicated to perpetuating the oldest art forms known to the human race - that of stenciling, faux finishing and other decorative arts.

Amended in 1996 to:

Stencil Artisans League, Inc. (SALI) dba International Decorative Artisans League (IDAL) is an international non-profit organization dedicated to the promotion and preservation of the art of stenciling and related decorative painting. Membership provides opportunities for artistic and professional growth through education, certification, public awareness and networking.

Founding Board

Susan Goans Driggers, Jeanne Serpa, Robert J. Misterka, Marti Michell, Chris Myer, John F. McDonald, Jane Gauss, Peggy Decker, Bette Byrd