MAY MORRIS DESIGNS: BOOK TALK BY LYNN HULSE

This event takes place in-person in the Headley Lecture Theatre and online via Zoom

Booking is essential. £8 in person & online. Book below

With Dr Lynn Hulse, ornamental embroidery expert

At this fascinating talk, textile historian and embroidery specialist Dr Lynn Hulse will discuss her new Ashmolean book on the pioneering Arts and Crafts designer-maker May Morris (1862–1938). 

May described design as ‘the very soul and essence of beautiful embroidery’ and ranked it chief among the four elements that make a piece of needlework truly ‘artistic’.

Left: Tulip & acanthus scrap book cover. Right: Tulip & pomegranate fire screen panel / cushion cover. May Morris, 1890s, private collection

Drawing on the Ashmolean's substantial collection of designs, Lynn Hulse will explore May’s approach to translating a sketched idea into a finished piece of embroidery, contextualising her work within the artistic developments of needle-art that were taking place in the years leading up to and during her lifetime.

'May Morris Designs: the Very Soul and Essence of Beautiful Embroidery' by Lynn Hulse is published in Jul 2025 and will be on sale at the talk.

The talk will be recorded and the recording link available on request’ from us at publicprogrammes@ashmus.ox.ac.uk

This event is part of our forthcoming Connect & Collaborate season of events 

BOOKING

This event takes place onsite in the Headley Lecture Theatre or online via Zoom

Tickets are £8

BOOK YOUR IN-PERSON TICKET     BOOK YOUR ONLINE TICKET

If you have any questions, please email us at publicprogrammes@ashmus.ox.ac.uk