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Hands-On History: Arts and Crafts Patterns
Short course
+44 (0)20 7942 2000
Following in the footsteps of William Morris, this unique textile history course will uncover the history, production and use of Arts and Crafts wallpapers and textiles through a mix of lectures, up-close observation and a hands-on screen printing masterclass. Over five days, you'll learn the creative process behind pattern design - how to build layers and colours, draw motifs, and play with scale to reproduce two of William Morris's most eminent designs; Strawberry Thief and Larkspur.
William Morris and the leading figures in the Arts and Crafts Movement were the most innovative and original designers in Britain in the second half of the 19th century. Their work in creating patterns for textiles and wallpapers was highly influential. Rejecting the overblown realism and the artificial symmetry of mid-Victorian design they introduced motifs such as colourful birds, ripe fruits and flowers in bloom inspired by the hedgerows and meadows of the English countryside.
William Morris and the leading figures in the Arts and Crafts Movement were the most innovative and original designers in Britain in the second half of the 19th century. Their work in creating patterns for textiles and wallpapers was highly influential. Rejecting the overblown realism and the artificial symmetry of mid-Victorian design they introduced motifs such as colourful birds, ripe fruits and flowers in bloom inspired by the hedgerows and meadows of the English countryside.
Workshop Leader
Daniel Heath
Daniel Heath is a British award-winning independent wallpaper, textile, and surface designer renowned for his illustrative and engaging designs. Based in the heart of East London, the designer-maker has long upheld principles of craftsmanship and sustainable design through up-cycling and re-appropriation of authentic heritage materials.
Getting to do things myself boosted my confidence Previous Academy Student
Course overview
Day One: Be immersed in the history of William Morris Wallpapers and Textiles with Art Historian and Wallpaper specialist Joanna Banham. Followed by a visit to the Prints and Drawings Study room to observe collection pieces close up.
Day Two: Screen print one of William Morris’ designs on a length of paper in mono-colour. Deep dive into the equipment and design structure Morris would have used.
Day Three: Create a repeating design on paper. Learn how to use block repeat, and half-drop to wallpaper scale. Learn how to generate a composition, and how to use imagery and cut-throughs to create infinite puzzle pieces.
Day Four: Recreate a William Morris pattern in a multi-layered design.
Day Five: Reimagine the William Morris design in your own colourways, create your own colour palette and discover the impact colour selection has on design.
All materials provided, this workshop is suitable for complete beginners, as well as those looking to refresh their knowledge. Open to participants aged 18 and above.
All materials provided, this workshop is suitable for complete beginners, as well as those looking to refresh their knowledge. Open to participants aged 18 and above.
Membership Priority Booking will open at 10.00 BST Friday 11 October 2024. General Booking will open at 10.00 BST on Monday 21 October 2024.
Being up close with treasured objects from the V&A's collections brings your learning to life. Join our expert tutors and meet fellow learners to join the discussion.
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Short course: Hands-On History: Arts and Crafts Patterns
10 February 2025 - 14 February 2025
£600.00
Need help enrolling? Talk to the admissions team:
+44 (0)20 7942 2000
Open 10.00 - 13.00, Monday to Sunday (closed 24-26 December)
Header image: Victoria and Albert Museum