The Arts and Crafts Movement: A Revolutionary Artistic Upheaval from England
An Epoch of Transformation and the Rise of the Middle Class
In the 1850s, amid the fervor of the Industrial Revolution, a new 'middle class' began to emerge in England. This period saw an unprecedented rate of property construction, giving rise to a vast array of Victorian architecture. The prevailing design ethos of the era was characterized by excessive decoration and a lack of foundational principles, setting the stage for the emergence of the Arts and Crafts Movement.
Foundations in Pugin's Work and the Gothic Revival
Augustus Welby Northmore Pugin, a tireless and fanatical designer, played a pivotal role in shaping this movement. His dedication to honest design principles profoundly influenced Victorian architecture and furniture design. Pugin's most significant commission was the interior and external detailing of the Houses of Parliament, including Big Ben. His work laid the groundwork for the Gothic Revival, the Anglo-Japanese, and Aesthetic Movements, with Edward William Godwin pioneering the latter through his modern, minimalist designs.
The Art Workers’ Guild and the Emergence of Arts and Crafts
In 1884, five young architects from Norman Shaw's office founded the Art Workers’ Guild, inspired by John Ruskin and William Morris's ideas. This guild aimed to dissolve the barriers between different art disciplines. The term ‘Arts and Crafts’ was coined by T J Cobden-Sanderson and gained prominence through the Arts and Crafts Exhibition Society established in 1888.
The Philosophical and Aesthetic Foundations
The movement revered functional design, natural forms, and creative manual work. It stood as a response to the over-elaborate Victorian fashion, emphasizing a return to skilled craftsmanship. William Morris, regarded as the father of the movement, eloquently encapsulated its ethos in his writings, advocating for the integration of beauty and utility in everyday objects.
The Social and Political Context
Beyond its artistic contributions, the Arts and Crafts Movement was also a social response to the Industrial Revolution's impact. It sought to restore dignity and value to labor, emphasizing the importance of pride in workmanship. The movement paralleled significant societal changes, including challenges to religious beliefs and the emergence of the term ‘unemployment.’
Legacy and Influences
The movement had far-reaching influences, from the Kelmscott Press's hand-printed books to the reform of lettering and graphic design. It inspired the Garden City Movement and led to the creation of organizations like the National Trust. The philosophy of the Arts and Crafts Movement transcended artistic boundaries and became a way of life, advocating for unity among architects, designers, and craftsmen.
Continued Relevance and Reflections
Despite its aim to democratize art and craft, the reality of modern consumerism has somewhat diverged from these ideals. The movement’s core message, however, about the value of craftsmanship and the beauty of functional design, continues to resonate in the 21st century.
Researched and written by Tony Geering.
