Crafted, Books of the Arts and Crafts Movement - Virtual Exhibition

Virtual Exhibition: Push the play button to explore the fully interactive virtual exhibition.

Introduction:

This exhibition features the Arts and Crafts Movement Object Based Learning set, which contains original rare books printed in England in the 1890s. The Special Collections team collaborate with teaching staff to build on-demand learning experiences creating memorable physical encounters with rare and unique items.  

The Arts and Crafts Movement in late 19th century Britain was a response to the low status of the decorative arts and the damaging effects of industrialisation. The Movement took its name from the Arts and Crafts Exhibition Society established in London in 1887 and having its first annual exhibition in 1888. Admiring the ideas and aesthetics of the Victorian era, the Movement was grounded on an understanding of Fine Art as a work in which the hand, the head, and the heart of man go together. Artists also drew inspiration from medieval and Gothic styles. People interested in the Movement were influenced by the work of artist and social activist William Morris. Morris advocated for the importance of creating beautiful, well-made objects that could be used in everyday life, by everyday people. He believed that increasing efficiency discourse has resulted in individuals' weak relationship with the results of their labour. 

All featured items are available for inspection in our Reading Room. Book a private viewing at least 48 hours in advance.

Curated by Brayden Maybury:

The exhibition was designed by Brayden Maybury. Brayden was in his final year of his Bachelor of Visual Communication Design at the University of Newcastle, and has a strong interest in typography, print design and layout design. These interests encouraged him to commence an internship with the Library’s Special Collections team and inspired him in the curation of his first exhibition, Crafted. Working with the team allowed Brayden to gain extensive knowledge on typography design and printing techniques as well as the history of book design and the Arts and Crafts movement. To see more of Brayden’s work head to braymaybury.com or @braydsgns on socials.

The physical exhibition was launched 26 October 2022, and closed March 2023.