Talwin Morris: his life, designs and legacy

This talk will introduce the life, book designs and legacy of Glasgow Style designer Talwin Morris (1865-1911). Art Director for publishers Blackie & Son from 1893, Morris became hugely influential in book design by moving away from the popular narrative bindings of the Victorian era to a more modern approach where Art Nouveau lines, curves and decoration are used to entice the reader. His output was prolific, producing many designs that could be printed in different colours across series such as the Red Letter Library and Library of Famous Books. In Glasgow, Morris was closely associated with the artists and designers of the Glasgow School of Art. Although he never attended the School, he became firm friends with Charles Rennie Mackintosh and his contemporaries, and his own work quickly began to incorporate Glasgow Style motifs. In 1900 he joined Mackintosh to exhibit at the 8th Vienna Secession. In 1902, he introduced Mackintosh to Walter Blackie, which led to Mackintosh receiving the commission to design one of his most famous works: Hill House, outside Glasgow. Morris retired through ill-health in 1909 and died in 1911 at just 45. His body lies in Dumbarton Cemetery, marked by a gravestone designed by his friend Charles Rennie Mackintosh.