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William morris Illuminated texts & letters

William morris Learning Statements for this lesson: AD2 Record, annotate and modify work in a sketchbook. AD4 Learn about the work of artists, crafts people and designers working in different times and cultures. AD8 Reflect on their own work and suggest ways in which they might develop it further. AD9 Make marks and lines with a wide range of drawing implements including graphite pencils, colouring pencils and charcoal AD15 Develop a painted composition from a drawing, including sketchbook ideas

During his life there were immense changes in the world During his life there were immense changes in the world. More people were travelling to different parts of the world and bringing back works of art and examples of decorative art. The invention of photography meant that people were able to view photographs of places and things from all over the world. William Morris was particularly influenced by art and design from India and the Islamic Middle East.

William Morris was also influenced by nature William Morris was also influenced by nature. This is why many of his designs feature flowers, leaves and birds. The Strawberry Thief by William Morris One morning, William decided to have a bowl of strawberries for breakfast. When he went into his garden he found a thrush in the strawberry plants, eating the berries. Instead of ‘shooing’ away the bird, he was inspired to create one of his most famous designs – called the Strawberry Thief. This repeating textile pattern shows birds eating strawberries and above them other birds singing. Notice how the pattern is symmetrical.

Illuminated text & letters William Morris designed many illuminated letters and manuscripts. This is when letters or texts are beautifully decorated.

More examples of illuminated letters Illuminated letters were first used nearly a thousand years ago when books were written by hand. The first letter of each page or paragraph was decorated, usually with either gold or silver leaf. The word illuminated comes from the Latin word ‘illuminare’ which means to ‘light up’

More examples of illuminated letters

Illuminated texts

To design illuminated letters in the style of William Morris using your own initial On squared paper draw your letter from one of your initials. Add leaves and flowers in the style of William Morris Finish with watercolours Use your sketchbooks to try out your ideas for your letter and decoration

Here are some modern examples of illuminated letters….