The recent KS4 Art Trip to the De Morgan Gallery at Wightwick Manor offered students an enriching journey into the heart of the Aesthetic and Arts & Crafts movements. Nestled within the historic Wightwick Manor – a Victorian masterpiece inspired by Oscar Wilde’s ideals of “The House Beautiful” – the gallery showcases the works of Evelyn and William De Morgan; a dynamic artistic duo whose creations epitomize the era’s fusion of beauty and craftsmanship.
Students explored the exhibition Look Beneath the Lustre, which delves into the creative processes behind Evelyn’s evocative Pre-Raphaelite paintings and William’s innovative ceramic designs. The display includes preparatory sketches, personal artifacts, and collaborative works, providing insight into their artistic journey and the broader cultural context of their time.