Exhibition: William Morris - Story, Memory, Myth at Two Temple Place
Learn about the importance of narrative in artist and author William Morris’ work while exploring sumptuous surrounds at new gallery Two Temple Place’s inaugural exhibition.
Mon 28th November 2011 – Sun 29th January 2012
Two Temple Place, London, WC2R 3BD
Category: Art
Photography by Will Pryce
Story, Memory, Myth looks at the way influential artist and author William Morris told stories using pattern and poetry, and in particular, how he was influenced by the works of Chaucer, Norse saga, Arthurian legend and Greek myth. Pieces are arranged according to a narrative rather than their medium—this sounds a brilliant way of thinking about how Morris might have returned to particular stories throughout his career.
Detail of The Romance of the Rose embroidered frieze 1874-6, copyright William Morris Gallery, London
Expect ornate decoration and scenes and characters from literature, as well as some of Morris’ rarely seen works. For instance, five panels from the embroidered frieze ‘The Romaunt of the Rose’ are displayed with ‘The Works of Geoffrey Chaucer’, illustrated by Morris and Edward Burne-Jones and printed by Morris’ private press. Together, they draw inspiration from the French medieval text the ‘Roman de la Rose’ (Romance of the Rose).
Woodpecker Tapestry 1885, copyright William Morris Gallery, London
In addition to providing visitors with the opportunity to explore some of Morris’ exquisite tapestries, tiles and textiles, this exhibition is also a chance to explore the newly-opened Two Temple Place, a neo-Gothic mansion on Embankment. Built in 1895 for William Waldorf Astor, it’s an architectural delight whose late Victorian opulence will provide a fascinating backdrop to Morris’ work.
Read my William Morris: Story, Memory, Myth exhibition review
Admission free
Opening hours
10:00am – 4:30pm Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday
12:00pm – 5pm Sunday
Closed on Tuesdays and on 24th, 25th, 26th, 31st December and 1st January.
