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Makers of the V&A
Online course
+44 (0)20 7942 2000
From silversmiths to embroiderers, sculptors to jewellers, this series of nine biographies explore the lives of makers who were unequalled in their craft. Their pioneering designs and innovative techniques reflect their exceptionalism, and their response to the political, industrial and aesthetic movements of the time. This course celebrates accomplished Makers represented in the V&A’s collection, whose masterpieces changed the direction of decorative arts forever.
From the moment you enrol on a V&A on-demand course, you get 12 months' access to every stunning video lecture to rewatch as often as you like, plus plenty of additional learning materials, yours to keep. Find out more: https://www.vandacourses.com/faqs
Already purchased the course? Sign back in to access it.
From the moment you enrol on a V&A on-demand course, you get 12 months' access to every stunning video lecture to rewatch as often as you like, plus plenty of additional learning materials, yours to keep. Find out more: https://www.vandacourses.com/faqs
Already purchased the course? Sign back in to access it.
Presented by V&A curators:
Sophie Morris, Rebecca Knott, Kate Devine, Maude Willaerts, Florence Tyler, Claire Allen-Johnstone, Simon Spier, Silvija Banić and Kirstin Kennedy
I felt that I gained much more knowledge than I had before and was guided by experts through the course. V&A Academy learner
Course overview
Explore a variety of well- and lesser-known makers working within a western tradition of the decorative arts from c.1700 to the present day across materials, techniques, and design movements.
Charlotte De Syllas (1946 - ) Artist-Jeweller redefining the art of stone carving.
Albert Paley (1944 - ) American metal sculptor, known for monumental ‘gates’.
Jaroslava Brychtová (1924 - 2020) and Stanislav Libenský (1921 - 2002) Czech contemporary glass artists.
Eileen Gray (1878 - 1976) Avant Garde interior designer, architect, furniture and lacquer designer.
May Morris (1862 - 1938) Exceptional embroiderer, and designer of embroideries for Morris & Co.
William De Morgan (1839 - 1917) Arts and Crafts Designer, Potter and Tile Maker.
Nicholas Sprimont (1716 - 1771) Huguenot refugee and innovator in early English porcelain.
Anna Maria Garthwaite (1688 - 1763) Prolific textile designer for Spitalfields handwoven silk.
Paul de Lamerie (1688 - 1751) Silversmith working in the elaborate Rococo style.
V&A on-demand gives you instant access to beautiful courses
Our courses bring the rigour of V&A experts together with the flexibility to learn at a pace that suits you. The simple and intuitive platform lets you focus on the joy of learning something new, while your support powers the V&A's vital work.
Enrol now
Online course: Makers of the V&A
3 May 2026 - 17 April 2027
£45.00
Call to book +44 (0)20 7942 2000
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)
