Inspiration | News | Interior Decorating Tips | Wallpaper | September 12, 2024

Live Wallpaper Painting at the Hope & Ivy x The William Morris Society Launch

I was thrilled to have been invited to collaborate on the launch of the new Hope and Ivy x The William Morris Society collection, especially as a long-time admirer of William Morris's timeless designs.

Dressed in The Emery, a beautifully tailored Hope & Ivy dress featuring one of Morris's enchanting bird and floral patterns in deep blues, I felt perfectly attuned to the spirit of the event. This dress wasn't just a garment but also a piece of art, reflecting the intricate designs of William Morris that have inspired generations.

The celebration began on Friday evening held at POM London with an intimate gathering. Guests enjoyed a delectable charcuterie selection from Grape & Fig and refreshing beverages by Heartsease Farm, highlighted by a stunning William Morris-themed cake by Alice Fevronia of The Great British Bake Off, as delightful to taste as it was to admire.

As the weekend unfolded, I set up my table on Saturday for a live painting demonstration. Working on a new mural for our upcoming collection, I got to work putting Chinese ink down on paper, crafting a bamboo scene that I have been working on for the past few months. It was a joy to share my process and chat with those who stopped to watch the artwork come to life.

The event also showcased the talents of other incredible artisans. Sasha Compton had transformed the storefront with a hand-decorated mural, while Flora Jamieson and Tabara N'Diaye demonstrated their respective crafts of stained-glass painting and basket weaving. Their dedication to their art forms was not only inspiring but a testament to the legacy of William Morris's influence on modern craftsmanship.

We were privileged to hear from Claudia Suckling from The William Morris Society and paper conservator Angelina Bakalarou, who spoke about the importance of preserving traditional skills and the impact of William Morris's work. Their insights added depth to my appreciation of the arts and crafts movement and its relevance today.

Throughout the weekend, the event showcased a series of live demonstrations and offered opportunities for interaction among artists, craftspeople, and attendees. The Hope & Ivy collection, featuring eight exquisite dresses, beautifully captured the essence of Morris's iconic designs.

For anyone who wishes to delve deeper into the stories behind the artistry, I invite you to explore the Q&A with all the artists involved, available on the Hope & Ivy blog. Their journeys are fascinating, and I thoroughly enjoyed exploring each artist's unique story through their insightful interviews.

Read the full Q&A with the makers

It was a privilege to be part of such a vibrant gathering that not only honored the past but also embraced the future of art and design. Thank you to Hope & Ivy and The William Morris Society for orchestrating such a fantastic celebration of culture and creativity.

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