The Arts and Crafts Movement
1880-1910
Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful.
The Arts and Crafts Movement when compared to other eras we studied in History 1, is one that I have a deep appreciation for. It certainly can be considered one of the earliest representations of modern day minimalism in design. Defined by traditional craftsmanship and simple, unadorned pieces; the Arts and Crafts Movement hosted a variety of designers and builders that helped shape the movement and thus, modern day minimalism. Influenced by the Gothic revival, William Morris - considered one of the largest contributors to the movement - was known for his simple designs, free of overly ornate decorations. Morris was even known to leave his pieces slightly unfinished to really display the craftsmanship and the creative process. Examples of this minimalist design approach can be found below. Note the heavy use of natural motifs and primarily wooden interiors and furniture pieces.
Historical Examples:
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| Robert Treat Paine Estate. Note: Exposed beams, use of negative space, simple unadorned interior. |
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| Note: Under-varnished top, exposed fasteners, simple lines |
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| Cragside stylized sunflower. Note:Simple representation of a sunflower. Wooden construction. |
Modern Examples
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| Dana Thomas House: Frank Lloyd Wright Note: Clean wood construction |
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| Modern Minimalist Furniture Note: Natural wood grain and color. Clean lines. |
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| Tiny House Lifestyle Note: Nothing excess. Everything is either beautiful, or serves a purpose. |
Short Video
Please take a look at this video if you have an interest in delving a bit deeper into the Arts and Crafts Movement.
https://youtu.be/tYjNO2Y4m6c
Peer Reviews
Alicia:
Alicia did a fantastic job providing very in depth historical information. More importantly however, I really liked her modern day examples. Each image really showed the minimalism that the Arts and Crafts Movement focused on.
Amanda:
Equally, Amanda's Modern day images focused on the use of wood within the space. Allowing the sense of craftsmanship to really come forth.
