The Rise of the Arts and Crafts Movement

The Arts and Crafts Movement began in England in the mid-19th century as a reaction to the Industrial Revolution. The philosophy of the movement was that art should be handmade, not mass-produced, and that it should be accessible to everyone, not just the wealthy. The style of art associated with the movement is known as Arts and Crafts Style, which is characterized by simple, geometric designs and natural materials like wood and stone.

Gustav Stickley and the American Arts and Crafts Movement

The American Arts and Crafts Movement began in the late 19th century, inspired by the work of English designer William Morris. Like Morris, Gustav Stickley, one of the most important American Arts and Crafts designers, believed that art should be handmade and accessible to everyone. Stickley's furniture is characterized by its simple, Mission-style design and use of natural materials like wood and leather.

The Legacy of the Arts and Crafts Movement

Today, the Arts and Crafts Movement is considered one of the most important design movements of the 19th and 20th centuries. The simple, clean lines of Arts and Crafts furniture and architecture are still popular today, and many designers continue to be inspired by the philosophy of the movement.

Incorporating Arts and Crafts Movement into your life

If you're interested in incorporating the Arts and Crafts Movement into your life, there are a few ways to do so. Look for furniture and home decor items that have a simple, geometric design and are made of natural materials like wood or stone. Or, try your hand at making your own arts and crafts! There are many online tutorials

Why the Arts and Crafts Movement is important for the future

The Arts and Crafts Movement is important for the future because it represents a return to quality, handcrafted products. In a world where mass-produced, cheaply made goods are becoming the norm, the Arts and Crafts Movement represents a commitment to quality and craftsmanship. By supporting businesses that follow the Arts and Crafts philosophy, we can help ensure that handcrafted, quality products remain available for generations to come.

Top resources for learning about the Arts and Crafts Movement

If you're interested in learning more about the Arts and Crafts Movement, there are a few great resources to check out. The website of the Arts and Crafts Society is a good place to start. You can also find a wealth of information on the Gustav Stickley Museum website, as well as in books like The Furniture of Gustav Stickley and The Arts and Crafts Home by Kitty Turgeon and Robert Rust.