Liberty & The Arts and Crafts Movement

Liberty was a key part of the development of the Arts and Crafts movement which spanned from 1880 to 1920. The store provided a place for artists to showcase their work and regularly organised exhibitions, lectures and workshops to champion the values of craftsmanship and individuality. Liberty established strong relationships with independent artisans who were involved with the movement and actively supported emerging artists, furniture makers and designers.

William Morris was one of the Artisans that collaborated with Liberty. This partnership demonstrated the essential role that Liberty played in the Arts and Crafts movement in Britain. Arthur Liberty, founder of Liberty, commissioned Morris numerous times to create their renowned and legendary fabric designs. Morris also often showcased his work in the Liberty store.
These fabric designs are still some of Liberty’s most famous and loved prints today with the iconic Strawberry Thief now part of the Classics collection. Originally, it was produced as a furnishing fabric in 1979. Some other notable designs include Mortimer, Lodden, and Willow Walk.