William Morris Wallpaper Design Formal Analysis Essay Example

and stems create a pattern and breaks out the background. Furthermore, form is shown in the larger flowers and leaves. These forms have contour lines, which makes the flowers and leaves appear organic and naturalistic. Also he creates tonal variety which serves to show the shadows and high points of the flowers and leaves. The bigger flowers are exaggerated and emphasized. All of these effects used suggest that Morris painted the flowers from real life. They appear prolific and this reminds the viewer of nature, growth and beauty.

His main sources were from "plants themselves, observed in his ardent or on country walks" (Nature as Inspiration [as]). The Industrial Revolution caused cities to grow rapidly around factories without planning. This meant that there was a lack of sanitation and an increase in pollution, smog and filth from the factories. Figure 3 Designer Unknown, Negative Effects of the Industrial Revolution, Slideshows, 2008. William Morris wanted to create something pure, clean and safe for people's homes. Nature created a peaceful, harmonious atmosphere compared to the noisy industrialized city.

Therefore, the emphasis placed on nature in his wallpaper design contributes to the advancement of society as they were able to escape the filth and pollution outside of their houses and focus on the natural aspects of the wallpaper within the comfort of their homes. In addition, his design also shows a link between arts and crafts. Art deals with fine arts and the ability to draw objects the way they are seen. However, craft refers to representing objects in a more simplified way. The combination of the shape and form in this wallpaper design creates a pattern which

s safe and secure.

Therefore, this also contributes to the betterment of society. 2. 3 Color and tone In this design, Morris uses lighter colors on a dark background. The color contrast between the light yellow flowers and light blue leaves directs the eye and creates a horizontal pattern. He uses tonal variation for the large forms, such as the big green flowers and leaves, of the design in order to create emphasis and contrast. This adds to the circular movement created by the leaves and stems. The colors used also create a surface pattern.