The gallery is the only one in Britain that is dedicated to
the leader of the Arts and Crafts Movement (1850-1900) William Morris, who is
best known for his wallpaper designs. Set within a Georgian house which was
built in 1740 it is a grand setting for the Victorian designers work; Morris
also lived in the house between 1848 and 1856 with his family so makes it the
perfect setting.
The reasoning behind a museum is to offer inspiration, education
and enjoyment through the collection of items displayed. The William Morris
gallery has all these factors in its collections some of my favourite are a
full scale replica of Morris’s workshop, a letter explaining his reasoning for
rejection of clergy for a life dedicated to art and examples of his speeches advocating
socialism. I think that they give the visitor a rounded insight into the inspiration
and life of Morris.
The diffusion between the permanent collection, setting and
new exhibits is true to the Arts and Crafts movements’ ideology as appreciation
of quality craftsmanship is upheld throughout the gallery. Art Fund Prize judge said it, ‘offers a
memorable way of experiencing art of the highest quality in the context of a
great historic personality.’
The William Morris gallery is a treasure cove of objects
made with love and passion, and with the upmost beauty and ingenuity handcrafted
examples include wallpaper, ceramics, furniture and textile samples.
‘Have nothing in your
house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful,’ Morris
has been quoted as saying and this is certainly a true reflection of the
objects displayed in the William Morris gallery.
Morris Wallpaper, 1862 - 'Trellis'
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