Mar 24, 2016
William Morris’ 182nd birthday
This Doodle’s Key Themes
It's nearly impossible to sum up William Morris' contributions to British design, arts, and aesthetics. A true prodigy, Morris dove deeply into each of his many interests, leaving us a rich legacy in multiple fields.
Starting with graphic art, Morris' detailed drawings paved the way for modern surface design. His intricate patterns flow across pages, walls, and fabric with a seamless effect. But Morris didn't stop there — he believed that quality production was the essence of great craftsmanship: from patterning to type design to furniture to bookbinding.
A relentless creative, Morris played with patterns in words as well. In 1856, he founded the Oxford and Cambridge Magazine, writing and publishing many of his early poems there. He lectured publicly on socialism, art, architecture, and founded or held titles in multiple artists groups, such as the Hammersmith Socialist Society and the Art Workers Guild.
Morris, along with other figures in the Arts and Crafts Movement, believed the success of a society was based on providing useful and meaningful work. By focusing on the end-to-end production of goods by passionate artisans instead of machines, he built a powerful political case for worker's rights. His advocacy left an indelible mark on British culture in the face of rapid industrialization.
In many ways, Morris' life's work is reflected in his prints: a lush journey through interrelated pursuits. To highlight his iconic style, Doodler Lydia Nichols recreated five different Morris designs. Each appears randomly as the page is refreshed. May these designs honour the distinct and varied ways in which Morris' point of view shaped our world. For more, check out the William Morris Gallery.
All five William Morris inspired Doodles
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