William Morris and Contemporary Decor: A Study of Aesthetic Responses
Publication Date
2025
Presentation Length
15 minutes
College
Watkins College of Art
Department
Art, Department of
Student Level
Undergraduate
SPARK Category
Art
Faculty Advisor
Judy Bullington
Metadata/Fulltext
Metadata ONLY
SPARK Session
Judy Bullington 3:15-4:15 LCVA 120
Presentation Type
Talk/Oral
Summary
William Morris (1834-1896), an influential British designer most often known for his intricate wallpaper and textile designs, expressed a desire to return to craftsmanship amongst the mechanized production of the Industrial Revolution. The natural beauty of handmade design is a value that continues to resonate today, now against contemporary interior trends of minimalism and modern expressions of luxury and wealth. This presentation explores historical responses to industrialization, placing Morris’s work within a broader context of contemporary design trends and displaying the persisting appreciation for organic forms and traditional aesthetics. While utilizing visual evidence and personal preferences in interior decor, viewers will understand how past artistic movements influence familiar tastes.
Recommended Citation
Explore the collection. (2023, May 24). William Morris Gallery. https://wmgallery.org.uk/collection/explore-the-collection/