Vine Leaf, May Morris

     Design reform emerged as a reaction against industrialization, which emphasized mass production and commercialization that pushed societal stereotypes. Advertisements and mass produced products during this time frequently depicted women in domestic roles using ornate typography and imagery which limited women’s societal roles. The Art and Crafts movement challenged these norms by emphasizing handcrafted work which allowed people to step outside of their societal role. 

     May Morris shows this shift with her embroidery piece Vine Leaf, made in 1896, which features symmetrical design inspired by English gardens and Japanese elements. Her craftsmanship and research of different elements aided in giving women a new role outside of taking care of the home. It showed women that it was possible to slow down and take time to learn more about things you love and craft them slowly. The Arts and Crafts movement pushed back against industrial conformity and expanded the possibilities for women’s roles in creative and professional spaces.