Morris Stew
The 2020 calendar, Whose House?, as many of you know, featured houses I imagined in the style of twelve unique artists I have fancied one way or another. It was so much fun that I’m thinking of adding to the collection and making a book….or designing a coloring book…or…well, stay tuned on that. Gears are still working.
January’s house calendar page was as I imagined English artist William Morris might have drawn it. I have delved into his work and life more now and am officially now - to coin a phrase I used in my younger, more reckless days - apes**t over him. I love the overlapping petals and leaves, the muted blues and greens, the detail of nature, the colorful patterns, and the flowing lines.
My art table a la Morris
And so I am carving, painting, collaging and documenting his art and life. I created this alphabetical look at the man and his work, and I’ve been putting together a collection of items that will be on the shop one of these days. A few of those will be available as free downloads to new and current subscribers, so if you haven’t subscribed yet, now may be the reason!
And while you’re video binging, may I suggest three other videos I found especially interesting. The teacher in me especially enjoyed the first 12 minutes of the last one, where students tour the William Morris Gallery. and get to do play some.
Not ready for videos? There’s more beneath, so don’t leave yet!
This is very lovely video that shows a lot more of his work and summarizes his life and contributions well.
…and I loved seeing his actual home on this video tour.
A short community / education film exploring the life, creative work and social influences of William Morris.
Here is a free download from public domain made available by rawpixel.com. (Most of Morris’s images are in the public domain.)
And here is my Pinterest board with some my favorite Morris images. Just a few. I could go on.
Finally, if you purchased the calendar, you are a HOUSEMATE that should have received your email with the monthly free download. This month I created six bookplates in Morris style; check your email and let me know if you did not get yours. If you received the calendar as a gift, your friend has my permission to send the link to you, so pester her or him.
