Mike Gleeson, Director of Giltwood is a Gold Leaf Gilder and has become a Master Gilder with knowledge in all types of Art Gilding and specialised finishes.

Mike's initial training came from learning the art of Gilding from Ron Crawford of Crawford Burman and Co. from the age of sixteen and learning how to manufacture ornamental picture frames from Australia's oldest firm of its type. Mike also learnt wood carving from Aldo Pierini in his own time. Mike established Giltwood in 1974 at the age of 21, specialising in Frame Making, Gilding and Antique Restoration.

Mike has imported, restored and sold many thousands of French Antique items over four decades and produced thousands of reproductions, all of which were Gilded. Mike has worked on Architectural gilding for various churches, government buildings, private clients and the trade along with private commissions.

The new faze of the business after 50 years of retailing will be to concentrate on private commissions for restoration and gilding of objet d'art to preserve those precious items that would otherwise be lost in time.