Morris was a man of prolific talents but it is probably as a designer of repeating patterns, and in particular, wallpapers, that he is best remembered today. A one-man pattern-making phenomenon and a master of colour, he created over 50 wallpapers, which also became to most commercially successful work produced by his firm Morris & Co.
Morris was a man of prolific talents but it is probably as a designer of repeating patterns, and in particular, wallpapers, that he is best remembered today. A one-man pattern-making phenomenon and a master of colour, he created over 50 wallpapers, which also became to most commercially successful work produced by his firm Morris & Co.
Many of his designs exemplify his celebrated injunction to 'have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful' and illustrate his insistence on skilled craftsmanship and high-quality materials. This lecture examines Morris's wallpapers within the context of Victorian design, and considers some of the different ways in which they were used and why they continue to have such an impact on designers today.
Jo Banham is a freelance lecturer and writer. She has worked as Head of Public Programmes at the V&A, the National Portrait Gallery and Tate Britain. She has published on many of wallpaper and interior design, including books on Morris. She is currently researching a new book on the history of wallpaper for Thames & Hudson.
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The Kelmscott House shop stocks a wide range of gifts including china, textiles, books and stationery all inspired by the work of William Morris, founder of the Arts and Craft movement. Enjoy 10% off all purchases during your next visit with your National Art Pass.
Expires: 1 Jan 2025
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Address
26 Upper Mall, Hammersmith, London, Greater London, W6 9TA
020 8741 3735
Opening times
Thursdays 2pm-5pm
Saturdays 2pm-5pm
Sundays 2pm-5pm
Exclusions and safety measures
PLEASE NOTE THAT KELMSCOTT HOUSE ITSELF IS PRIVATELY OWNED AND NOT OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. The Society is based in the Coach house and Basement.
School groups and private tours are welcomed. Please email wmsadmin@williammorrissociety.org to arrange.
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