Following on from the exhibition mentioned in a previous blog post, it's worth noting a new book that has been released to accompany it. The book delves into how Morris’s vision and influence was inspired by the art of the Islamic world and Islamic art.
I ordered my copy last week and have been enjoying reading it. It includes a collection of essays, and though it has images to illustrate, it is a text heavy book.
Morris was responsible for hundreds of patterns for wallpapers, fabrics, tapestries and carpets that are iconic of the late nineteenth century and continue to resonate today.
His influence is believed to have come from the embroideries, woven velvets, silks, carpets and metalwork from Iran, Syria and Turkey that he collected throughout his lifetime.
For anyone interested, Rowan Bain, author of the book, will be visiting the gallery to discuss her work and Morris's role as a collector of Islamic art and the importance of recognising the contributions of various cultures to the evolution of his design and craftsmanship.
The talk is on Tuesday 10th December.
Please contact the gallery to reserve a place.
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