Canadian Society of Decorative Arts
The Canadian Society of Decorative Arts (French: Cercle canadien des arts décoratifs; CSDA/CCAD) is a Canadian charitable organization dedicated to promoting decorative art and design. Established in 1981 with foundational support from the McDonald Stewart Foundation, it operates as a national nonprofit focused on education, advocacy, and community engagement within the decorative arts[1][4].

Activities and Mission
The CSDA/CCAD organizes guest lectures, special events, and publications to showcase decorative arts and material culture, emphasizing both traditional and contemporary perspectives[2]. Recent initiatives include monthly online programming, member-exclusive access to archived presentations, and collaborations with artists, collectors, and institutions[1][2]. The society publishes Ornamentum, an award-winning magazine highlighting decorative arts topics[2].

Membership and Outreach
Members receive benefits such as discounted event access, artist talks, and behind-the-scenes tours of private and institutional collections[2]. The society also hosts fundraising events, including auctions featuring works by notable artists like David Lloyd Blackwood[2]. Its programming often addresses interdisciplinary themes, including historical conservation, craft techniques, and design innovation[1][2].

Historical Context
While the CSDA/CCAD itself was founded in the late 20th century, its work intersects with Canada’s broader decorative arts heritage, which includes Indigenous craftsmanship, studio pottery movements, and European-inspired design traditions[3]. The society’s strategic initiatives aim to preserve these legacies while fostering contemporary dialogues[1].

Governance
As a registered charity (Business Registration Number: 886343391RR0001), the CSDA/CCAD is governed by a board of directors overseeing its three-year strategic plan, which emphasizes organizational sustainability and expanded public engagement[1].

[1] https://csda-ccad.org/About [2] https://csda-ccad.org [3] https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/decorative-arts-in-canada-1 [4] https://www.eventbrite.ca/o/canadian-society-of-decorative-arts-30622773328 [5] https://www.decartssociety.org/exhibits