Pioneers: John Ruskin, William Morris and the Bauhaus

John Ruskin, William Morris and the students and masters of the Bauhaus shaped our understanding of art and design. They were united by a common belief – that design and making can improve everyday life.

During its early years, the groundbreaking German art school championed the ideas of Ruskin, the Victorian artist and writer, and Morris, the celebrated designer and craftsman. Each shared principles of making, community and excellent design for all – before shifting its focus to embrace mass production, handcraft was a central pillar of the formative Bauhaus philosophy.

This major new exhibition presented around 100 key works, including a host of significant national and international loans. Together, they illustrated how Ruskin and Morris’ thinking influenced the Bauhaus and explored the school’s important links to the Arts & Crafts movement.

Pioneers went on display in Sheffield, a city with a rich history of expert, small-scale production and a global reputation for excellence in making. It’s also home to the Guild of St George’s unique collection of art and artefacts brought to the city by John Ruskin to inspire the many skilled craftspeople in its workforce.

Exhibition organised with the William Morris Gallery, London in association with Sheffield Museums

With thanks to Gerhard-Marcks-Haus and the Gunta Stölzl Foundation.
 

Exhibition generously sponsored by