The Century Guild and its ?Hobby Horse?
18 May 2004. Stuart Evans packed his lecture with
factual detail on A.H. Mackmurdo and his associates of the the Guild,
opening with a discussion of Mackmurdo?s Wren?s City Churches and the society?s journal, The Hobby Horse,
pointing to the enigmatic symbolism of their cover designs. He not only
dealt with the idealistic aims of this Arts and Crafts group but also
stressed the financial aspects of the venture ? the journal never
viable, projects often supported by private funds and Mackmurdo?s own
salary. In order to survive, commercial marketing was essential, a
problem solved by exhibiting at trade fairs. Fascinating slides
recreated one of their elaborately furnished display rooms, and the
founding of a sort of city commune with workshops and a gracious dining
room. That the Guild lasted ten years was remarkable. Stuart Evans?
talk was a tribute to those who founded and nourished it with such
enthusiasm.
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