The Arts and Crafts Exhibition Society

Definition

The Arts and Crafts Exhibition Society was an organization founded in 1887 in London that aimed to promote the Arts and Crafts Movement and showcase the work of artisans and designers. This society played a critical role in advocating for the return to traditional craftsmanship and the importance of handmade goods in response to the industrialization of art and design. It became a platform for artists, including key figures from the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, to display their work and inspire a broader appreciation for decorative arts.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Arts and Crafts Exhibition Society held its first exhibition at the New Gallery in London in 1888, showcasing over 700 works by various artists and craftsmen.
2. The society played a pivotal role in influencing public taste and attitudes towards handcrafted goods during a time when industrialization was prevalent.
3. Members of the society believed that art should be accessible to everyone and sought to improve living conditions through better design.
4. The society helped establish connections between designers and manufacturers, fostering collaborations that led to the creation of numerous decorative arts objects.
5. Many notable artists, including Edward Burne-Jones and Arthur Hughes, participated in the exhibitions, helping to further elevate the profile of the Arts and Crafts Movement.

Review Questions

• How did the Arts and Crafts Exhibition Society contribute to the promotion of traditional craftsmanship during its time?
  • The Arts and Crafts Exhibition Society was essential in advocating for traditional craftsmanship by providing a platform for artisans to display their handmade works. By organizing exhibitions that highlighted the quality and beauty of handcrafted items, it encouraged a shift away from industrial mass production. This movement not only celebrated skilled artisans but also inspired public appreciation for unique, well-crafted goods.
• In what ways did the ideals of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood influence the activities and philosophy of the Arts and Crafts Exhibition Society?
  • The Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood's emphasis on naturalism, detailed observation of nature, and medieval themes significantly influenced the Arts and Crafts Exhibition Society's philosophy. Many members were inspired by Pre-Raphaelite ideals, which promoted the value of beauty in everyday life through art. This connection helped shape the society's focus on quality craftsmanship and originality, as it sought to elevate decorative arts similarly to how the Pre-Raphaelites elevated painting.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of the Arts and Crafts Exhibition Society on contemporary design movements.
  • The Arts and Crafts Exhibition Society has had a profound influence on contemporary design movements by instilling values of craftsmanship, sustainability, and aesthetic integrity. Its promotion of handmade goods inspired later movements such as Art Nouveau and Modernism, which embraced similar principles of beauty combined with functionality. Today, its legacy can be seen in current trends that prioritize artisanal work and eco-friendly materials, reflecting an ongoing appreciation for skilled craftsmanship in a world still heavily influenced by mass production.

Related terms

Arts and Crafts Movement: A design movement that emerged in the late 19th century, emphasizing traditional craftsmanship, simple forms, and the beauty of natural materials as a reaction against industrial mass production.

Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood: A group of English painters, poets, and critics founded in 1848 who sought to reject the academic standards of art that followed Raphael, focusing instead on naturalism and medieval themes.

William Morris: A key figure in the Arts and Crafts Movement, known for his textile designs, writings on art and society, and advocacy for social reform through craftsmanship.