Young Poland: The Polish Arts and Crafts Movement, 1890–1918

Abstract

This illustrated collection seeks to reposition the Young Poland movement in the context of the international Arts and Crafts movement, rather than continuing to situate Young Poland in the context of European Art Nouveau. Published ahead of an accompanying exhibition at the William Morris Gallery in London, the editors’ introduction highlights ideas shared between the British Arts and Crafts movement and Young Poland. Similarities can be seen in their interest in folk traditions, inspiration from local flora and desire to eliminate the boundary between high and low art. The collection shifts focus from the role of painting to applied arts in Young Poland, incorporating contributions about less-well known artists’ work.