GMD's Jean McElvain and Kathleen Campbell were guest lecturers on Wednesday March 28, for Prof. Tasoulla Hadjiyanni's class, History of Interiors and Furnishings: 1750 to Present. They focused on arts and crafts era textiles, decorative arts objects, and costume. McElvain and Campbell both gave short lectures about designs during the period, then allowed students to get up close with pieces from the collection (without touching, or course).

Two standout pieces were a pair of tall ceramic Rookwood candleholders from 1919, a Gift of Marian Ortolf Bagley. Rookwood was founded by Maria Longworth Nichols in 1880, and spent the first several years perfecting glazes. Matte green and blue glazes like this became a hallmark for arts and crafts pottery at the turn of the century. In addition to vases and other pot-like vessels, Rookwood produced tiles, drinking mugs, paper weights, book ends, and figurines. In 1883 Rookwood was featured at the Chicago World's Fair where it won a "highest award," giving Rookwood international recognition.

McElvain and Campbell were happy to teach class for a day, giving students a diverse experience with design history. You too can get up close with the collection! You can schedule a group visit to our Research Center, visit our current exhibitions, or find which membership levels offer behind the scenes tours. GMD produces high quality programs, supports collection preservation, and educates the public through object-based learning. What will you do during your next visit?

*Correction: this is not a Roseville piece, as stated in the winter 2012 GMD Newsletter