In the Style Of: May Morris
online talk + painting class
Tues 29th September
2pm - 5pm UK Time
Tutor: Martin Beek & Heather Held
Bookings Close: 15 September
Class timings (UK time)
- 2pm - 2:45pm ArtTalk with Martin Beek
- 2:45pm - 3pm Q&A session and short comfort break
- 3pm - 5pm Live demonstration by Heather Held
Our 'In the Style Of' classes bring together our ever popular ArtTalks with the joy of a traditional class. Join us for an engaging talk with our resident art history expert, Martin Beek, followed by a live demonstration by the super talented Heather Held. This wonderful collaborative class is inspired by May Morris and is open to students of all abilities.
ArtTalk
Mary "May" Morris was the younger daughter of the Pre-Raphaelite artist and designer, William Morris. Her mother was the Pre-Raphaelite muse Jane Morris. In this talk we will look at many examples of her work.
May was an embroidery designer and jeweller, as well as a social activist and reformer. As we learn more about her story, and her significant contribution to the Arts and Crafts movement, we will reflect upon the beauty of her work whilst being fascinated by her idealism and commitment to hard work.
Martin's talk will be illustrated where possible with original photographs and slides. He will also provide a list of helpful books and links to further explore on a PDF following the talk.
Demonstration
The design work of William Morris is widely known and revered, but almost completely overshadows the incredible skills and contributions of his daughter May Morris. In this class we look to celebrate May and her work.
May was immersed in the Arts and Crafts Movement all her life; she was an outspoken, determined and skilled needleworker who left a legacy of intricate designs, sketches, and insightful practices for any artist. Our practical demonstration will take an inspiring look at how embroidered patterns can influence our drawn, painted, and gilded designs for calligraphic work.
As May overlooked her father’s shoulder as he worked, she gleaned powerful insights about design, colour and line. All artistry is tightly interwoven through threads over time, and we will explore the incredible beauty of the twists, turns, florals and leaves of May Morris, a truly remarkable woman.
