Today I’m honouring the great-grandaddy of pattern design and signature style… William Morris. It just so happens, that yesterday (24 March) Mr Morris would have been 190 years old!
My first memorable experience of Morris’s works, was as a young design student wandering the great hall of rugs at a local museum. I was on my way somewhere else and found myself, surprisingly, planted in place, as I took in the majesty of the huge, intricate textile designs hanging before me from the ceiling. I let the mesmerising, intertwining patterns wash over me and then powered off on my way again, not really thinking any more of it. Little did I know that both pattern and William Morris would weave their way back into my life again.
I think it’s fair to say that William Morris understood the significance of signature style. His distinctive style was predominantly nature-inspired, with rich colour palettes and a heavy focus on craftmanship. Repetition and symmetry were core elements in his designs and were skilfully applied to give a sense of balance and harmony, utilising touches of texture and detail to add interest and appeal. His works weren’t just about aesthetics though; they were about storytelling, about conveying a feeling of peace and contentment to the viewer.
As designers, we often talk about the importance of finding our signature style. It’s not just about creating something visually striking; it’s about creating something that speaks to who we are, something that resonates deeply with our audience.
In today’s fast-paced world, where trends come and go in the blink of an eye, embracing our own signature style becomes even more crucial. It’s what sets us apart, what makes our work timeless and enduring.
So here’s to you Mr Morris, thank you for your enduring influence that continues to shape the world of design today, and for inspiring us to create work that is both aesthetically pleasing and socially meaningful. Happy birthday!
