Topics in Material Culture Studies: The Arts and Crafts Movement in America 1880-1920

In the 1880s an international movement to reform the design of buildings and their furnishings took hold in America. Its proponents wanted to improve visual life in America by advocating the pride and honesty of craftsmanship and by embracing the ideal of unity of design--by which means they hoped to change the way Americans lived and worked. This course examines the architecture, furniture, silver, ceramics, and printed works of the Arts & Crafts Movement in America from 1880 -1920. Understanding and interpreting material life is emphasized through local field trips and first-hand experience with the collections of the RISD Museum.