Design in a Nutshell: The Arts and Craft Movement

So for one of my university activities, I have been set the task of studying the different major creative movements that have occurred within history over the past century. For this post I am going to discuss the Arts and Crafts movement of the 1800's.

What started as a rebellion against the negative impact of industrialisation during the 19th century, turned into one of the most creative revolutions in history.
The Arts and Craft movement arguably started 150 years ago during 1863 when individuals were starting to become frustrated with the mechanisation of industry, the introduction of new machinery and the unregulated trade that was occurring during the industrialisation of agriculture and transportation. At first the process of industrialisation was impressive, as many factories were able to produce products at a quicker speed and for a larger consumer base. However, it also had its negativities, as mass production was starting to replace the rare skills of craftsmanship and also had taken away the dedication and effort that was needed for making handmade products.

Many people were against this new wave of technology and therefore, individuals began to create a movement in rebellion against this industrialisation in order to form a new set of principles for living, working and to establish a reform of art in every case of society. The movement was led by the artist, William Morris who went on to create the craftsmanship based company 'Morris and Co' which catered in crafting and selling furniture, wallpaper, stained glass and carpeting; all interiors that were needed for home owners during the 19th century. Morris made the art and craft movement even more obvious throughout his products by leaving hammer marks and ridged edges for a more authentic and manmade effect.

Not only did the movement benefit craft workers but it also promoted a social and economic reform alongside a global appeal for arts and craft. Furthermore, although Morris lay the foundations for the movement, it is one that has continued, as the morals, ethics and political aims have never changed, regardless of the input that technology has had on our lives.
Adding on, although the movement began in Britain, it spread across Europe, America and Japan in a short period of time demonstrating the success and effect it had on individuals. These countries adapted the art reform but in a way that catered for their own origins needs. However, initially, they all shared the same principles and philosophies.

Furthermore, you may have read about the art critic, John Ruskin during my post about 'Gothic Revival' and it can also been seen that Ruskin had great influence during the Arts and Craft movement as well. Ruskin arguably researched the relationship between art, society and labour and harmoniously, Morris put Ruskin's findings into practice. Both Ruskin and Morris enjoyed the natural beauty of materials and were aware of the value of craftsmanship. Therefore, although arguably, Morris was the one behind the movement, there were still many other great influences that put the revolutionary idea together.

William Morris (1834-1896)


Morris and Co (founded in 1861)
Nearly 155 years later, William Morris' company 'Morris and Co' has continued to make a name for themselves by creating some of the most authentic and exciting textiles and wallpapers ever. The company still to this day, produces similar versions of  Morris' original designs but with a modern, new interpreted twist on his work.


Morris's work:
The Morris chair is a type of reclining chair. The design was adapted by William Morris company, Morris & Company.

The Morris Chair

Wallpapers by William Morris

'Trellis' woodblock printed wallpaper, by William Morris, England, 1864 (image on the left).
'Fruit' (or 'Pomegranate') wallpaper, by William Morris, 1866 (image on the right).
Rennie Mackintosh (1868-1928)


Rennie Mackintosh was another art and craft enthusiast in the United Kingdom during the 19th century who transformed the way we look at art. The artist, who was also part of the Post Impressionist movement, was known for his distinctive floral decorative motifs that cultivated the 'Mackintosh Style', translating his love of art and communicating his Glaswegian heritage. Take a look at some of his designs below.

(image: Victoria and Albert Museum)

Design for textiles 1915
Watercolour on tracing paper