Sapperton workshops - furniture

William Morris, Ernest Gimson, Peter Waals, the Barnsleys and co. were working in the Stroud District around the turn of the century.

The whole band of craftsmen was dedicated to creating artistic yet functional works, and between them their achievements ranged from stained glass, plasterwork, and metal objects to buildings and furniture. Their friends, Alfred and Louise Powell continued the innovative new style, by decorating pottery to fit the new style of room being created. Gimson set up workshops at Sapperton, where furniture in particular could be crafted.

Examples of Arts and Crafts buildings and styles are still evident around the District, and a collection of Arts and Crafts furniture is beautifully displayed at Owlpen Manor which was restored by Norman Jewson in 1925.

An 'Arts and Crafts' chapel

Although Morris was not born and bred in the Stroud area, he might well appear to have been, because his work is evident in many local buildings and his influence made such an impact in artists who did live here.

Two artists who shared his views were Ernest Gimson, described as an 'idealist individual', and Norman Jewson, and they lived according to Morris' teaching.

Gimson, a 19 year old architect was advised by Morris to go to the London office of architect JD Sedding, which was next door to the headquarters of William Morris and Co. Here he met Ernest Barnsley, and other clever young men, including Detmar Blow - and brought what he learned into the Cotswolds where he not only used his architectural skills but designed furniture, largely in the village of Sapperton for more than 25 years.

Stained glass window at Selsey Church

The craftsmen of Morris's day may not be around today, but they left a legacy to the Stroud District. And many artists and craftsmen still work with natural materials and use traditional skills - many of them belonging to the Gloucestershire Guild of Craftsmen and exhibiting their work at Painswick each year.

For further information / presentations on Arts and Crafts in the District - both then and now - contact Jenny Bailey on 01453 765705.