William Morris, Designer Extraordinary (Online)

One-day course

+44 (0)20 7942 2000
Join us online as we explore the life and works of William Morris: artist and artisan, businessman and poet; a short, sturdy visionary with an astonishing range of occupations and abilities. He could weave on a Jacquard loom, embroider, make screen prints and set type. He was an expert in vegetable dyes and manuscript illumination, he also knew the Icelandic sagas, Greek myths and Arthurian legends, and wove them into his work alongside the birds that stole his strawberries.

His determination to revive the values and craftsmanship of the past to serve the needs of the present created the Arts and Crafts Movement, shaped the taste of a generation, and formed the basis of an international design movement still alive today. He was also one of the first Marxists, speaking passionately for workers’ rights.

None of the things Morris believed were fashionable when he started believing them, yet by the time he died they had become the principles of a growing and vocal community and they form the basis of many of our modern attitudes and expectations. He is also part of the V&A’s history, not only as a frequent visitor but as designer, decorator and Art Referee, making this the perfect place for a Day School exploring his life, career and legacy.

> Prefer to attend the study day in-person at V&A South Kensington? Book now for William Morris, Designer Extraordinary

Please note, the study day will not be recorded. Suitable for participants aged 18 or over.
course photo
Portrait of Study Day Leader Justine Hopkins

Study Day Leader
Justine Hopkins

Justine Hopkins is a freelance writer and Art History lecturer, specialising in the19th and 20th centuries. A regular at the V&A, the Arts Society and Oxford University, she leads tours for Art Pursuits Abroad. Publications include Michael Ayrton: A Biography (1994, reissued 2021); ’Trees in Art and Literature’ for The Arts Society Magazine.

a massive thank you - this was fabulous learning Previous V&A Academy Course Attendee

Course overview

William Morris: designer, artist and craftsman; poet, businessman and Marxist; a lover of 
the past with ambitious visions for the future. Explore the achievements and legacy of this 
remarkable man. 
photo

V&A Academy. A learning environment you can trust.

Being up close with treasured objects from the V&A's collections brings your learning to life. Get precious time with incredible exemplars, as well as with our expert tutors and your fellow learners. 

Enrol now

One-day course: William Morris, Designer Extraordinary (Online)

27 March 2026

£49.00

Need help enrolling? Talk to the admissions team:

+44 (0)20 7942 2000

Open 10.00 - 13.00, Monday to Sunday (closed 24-26 December)

Related events

Header image: Morris, William. "Bullerswood Carpet" © Victoria and Albert Museum, London