The William Morris Gallery, situated in the former home of the iconic artist and writer, invites the public to contribute unusual items featuring Morris’s renowned designs for an upcoming exhibition titled “Morris Mania,” which celebrates the gallery’s 75th anniversary in April 2025. Gallery director Hadrian Garrard highlights the current trend of Morris patterns appearing on everyday products, from phone cases to umbrellas. The exhibition aims to create an immersive experience showcasing how Morris’s work has become ubiquitous, yet it will delve into the contradictions of his ideals as a champion of workers’ rights and affordable good design, juxtaposed against the realities of modern mass production and consumerism. Public donations will be displayed alongside quirky additions like a seat from a British nuclear submarine and a Japanese waving cat. The exhibition will also emphasise how Morris’s art and social ideas remain relevant today; his calls for beauty and utility in design resonate now as they did in the 19th century. Renowned for his textile patterns inspired by nature, Morris, who passed away in 1896, is often cited as the father of the Arts and Crafts movement. The William Morris Gallery is also undergoing refurbishment, following a £6m renovation of his home in Kelmscott, Oxfordshire, which reopened in 2022.

The exhibition at the William Morris Gallery is part of a broader resurgence in interest surrounding the works of William Morris, renowned for his intricate textile designs and impactful political beliefs. Known for advocating workers’ rights and the importance of creating beautiful, functional designs, Morris’s legacy faces the complexity of contemporary production methods, transitioning from artisanal craftsmanship to mass consumerism. As more items featuring his art flood the market, the gallery seeks to create a dialogue about the evolution of design and its implications in today’s society.

The William Morris Gallery’s forthcoming exhibition “Morris Mania” invites public contributions of items bearing Morris designs and juxtaposes these with eclectic artefacts, exploring the complexities of his legacy in the face of modern mass production. This initiative not only celebrates Morris’s 75-year influence through art and design but also ignites discussions on the relevance of his social ideals today. Morris’s emphasis on beauty and utility continues to be significant, even as consumerism challenges the accessibility of quality design.

Original Source: www.theguardian.com

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Tirzah Garwood (1908-1951) finally steps into the spotlight with a dedicated exhibition at Dulwich Picture Gallery, 73 years after her death. Previously overshadowed by her husband, artist Eric Ravilious, Garwood’s work is now highlighted in ‘Tirzah Garwood: Beyond Ravilious’, showcasing her artistic range beyond mere assistance to her spouse. Curator James Russell, who has felt the lack of recognition for Garwood, gathers over 80 of her rarely exhibited pieces, including oil paintings, engravings, and textiles. The exhibition follows her vivid autobiography, ‘Long Live Great Bardfield’, and the acclaimed film ‘Eric Ravilious: Drawn to War’, which contributed to renewed interest in her work. Garwood’s early training under Ravilious at Eastbourne School of Art shaped her distinct style, influenced by Victorian literature. Her creativity flourished after moving to Castle Hedingham in 1935, where she became a noted marbler while balancing family life. Following Ravilious’s death in 1942 and her own cancer diagnosis, her art transformed, leading to evocative oil paintings that reflect her complex emotional landscape and a growing Surrealist influence. The exhibition runs from 19 November 2024 to 26 May 2025, providing a significant platform for Garwood’s legacy to finally emerge from behind Ravilious’s shadow.

Tirzah Garwood, an accomplished artist and printmaker, has long been relegated to the role of ‘Mrs Eric Ravilious’, overshadowing her own substantial contributions to the art world. With a rich artistic style characterised by clarity and wit, and abilities in various mediums including wood engraving and marbling, Garwood’s work gained renewed attention through her autobiography and a film on Ravilious. This exhibition marks a critical reevaluation of her talent and impact.

The upcoming exhibition at Dulwich Picture Gallery represents a pivotal moment for Tirzah Garwood, highlighting her unique contributions to art and establishing her legacy independent of her husband’s influence. With a variety of works on display, it promises to shed light on her innovative and emotive artistry to a broader audience.

Original Source: www.theartnewspaper.com

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Italian designer Martino Gamper presented his first London design retrospective titled “Before, After and Beyond” at a Georgian house in Marylebone, concluding on 26 October. The exhibition filled the property with an array of Gamper’s eclectic designs, showcasing works spanning his two-decade career. The collection was displayed across five themed domestic spaces, including a kitchen and a games room, eschewing the typical gallery “white cube” aesthetic to create a homely atmosphere. Among the highlights were a geometric bed with unique accompanying furniture, a permanent travertine fireplace built to replace one that had been stolen, and an ombre rug in the games room furnished with colourful seating. The showcase also included pieces from Gamper’s 2007 project, “100 Chairs in 100 Days,

Martino Gamper is a prominent Italian designer known for his innovative approach to furniture and decor. His work is characterised by a blend of aesthetics, utilising various materials and techniques. This retrospective, taking place at 11 Mansfield Street, represents his recognition and celebration of 20 years in design. Collaborating with artists and integrating their work into his exhibition signifies a blending of artistic disciplines. The exhibition coincided with the prominent Frieze Art Fair, elevating its visibility in the design community.

Gamper’s retrospective not only showcased his diverse range of work but also engaged with the community by creating a relatable domestic setting. By combining his pieces with those of fellow artists and employing a plethora of materials, Gamper’s exhibition reflects his innovative spirit and connection to the city of London.

Original Source: www.dezeen.com

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