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Lucretia Donnell

Our Founder

A Brief History of
IPAT

The photos on this page are from pieces painted by Donnell.

1958

Lucretia Donnell of Dallas, TX founded the National China Painting Teachers Association.

1962

1970s

1972

1976

1978

1980

Painting for Posterity program begun.

The organization became international.

Bylaws changed to add position of Chairman of the Board.

Name changed to International Porcelain Art Teachers, Inc.

First central office and museum opened in Dallas, TX.

After two years of lobbying by IPAT members, Congress passed a resolution declaring china painting a fine art.

First schools as part of the Biennial Convention, which was held in Detroit.

1986

Office and museum moved to new location owned by IPAT. 

Name changed to International Porcelain Artists, Inc.  This opened membership to non-teachers for the first time.  Prior to this all members had to be certified teachers.  Members could now join if they were certified artists as well.   Master certifications were added at the teacher and artist level.

1988

1989

1990

1998

2018

2020

First competition held.  Lucretia Donnell passed away at age 95.

Office and museum were sold and moved to 7424 Greenville Ave, Ste 101, Dallas.

Office and museum were sold and moved to current location at 204 E Franklin St, Grapevine.

Name changed to International Porcelain Artists & Teachers, Inc.

Complete remodel of museum. 

The three-volume, Celebration, is published in honor of IPAT's 60th Anniversary.

1982

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