We didn't want to go far today, so we decided to pop up to Blackwell, the Arts and Crafts House, on Lake Windermere for some lunch, a stroll near the Lake and to enjoy the latest Arts and Crafts exhibition: Annie Garnett: The Alchemy of Colour.
Annie Garnett was a key figure in the Arts and Crafts Movement, she was inspired to establish The Spinnery after visiting the Langdale Linen Industry at Elterwater. This was a social enterprise which had revived the traditional skills of hand weaving and lace making in Lakeland. Annie Garnett's work was also inspired by the social reformer, John Ruskin.
Annie Garnett's work is beautiful, inspired by nature and the beautiful world around her. In her own words:
"I have caught the idea mostly from my favourite walk "over the top" where Mike (her Irish Setter) and I have tramped together many times and watched the sun set and the fir trees take up their deepest shadows."
In Windermere Industry of the Spinnery (1905) a booklet she produced to promote The Spinnery's work, she wrote:
"...sometimes it may be the heather covered crags with suggestions of cold, blue stone showing through; the beautiful silver birches; or the hedgerow thistle; sometimes a sunset, a lichen-covered stone, the tints of auburn trees, or the wondrous blue after rain".
Her colours all reflect nature, in a dazzling array of colours. Annie Garnett worked with Thomas Wardle, a dye maker based in Leek who specialised in producing natural dyes.
I was particularly interested in the exhbition because a couple of years ago we went to a talk about the Langdale Linen Industry and there were many references to Annie Garnett. It was really interesting therefore, to see some of her work and learn more about her.
I was also interested because, as part of the exhibition, Lakeland Arts has commissioned some work by Oubas, one of my favourite knitwear designers based in Ulverston. They say:
"The collection ... embodies the spirit of creativity and craftsmanship, honouring Garnett’s passion for botanical design and inspired by the intricate beauty of Annie Garnett’s handwoven textiles, we’ve reimagined her designs into a contemporary collection of knitwear. Drawing on her pioneering spirit, we’ve translated the patterns and textures of her woven cloth into innovative fabric designs, brought to life using our advanced digital knit technology and the skills of our local team.
This collection bridges the past and present; blending Garnett’s artisanal techniques with modern craftsmanship. The result is a series of beautifully detailed pieces that honour her artistic legacy while showcasing the versatility and elegance of knitwear. Each accessory tells a story of heritage, innovation, and connection to the natural world of the Lake District."
It was so delightful to wander around this beautiful Arts and Crafts house, enjoying Annie Garnett's exquisite work and appreciate work by a current artisan knitwear producer.