One of the most celebrated names in late 19th century and early 20th century Decorative Arts, Candace Wheeler designed textiles that can still inspire and delight.
Wheeler was one of the first designers to use American flowers (versus their European counterparts) as her inspiration. She studied Japanese stenciled kimono fabrics for ideas. The patterns she created are delicate and whimsical. Her textiles are masterpieces of the American Decorative Arts.
Candace Wheeler was a contemporary of Louis Comfort Tiffany and Lockwood de Forest at a time when women were encouraged to have hobbies instead of careers. She founded the Society of Decorative Arts and led the way for the many women designers who would follow her. She accomplished much as a designer and even more as a role model for serious craftspeople.
A few of her designs are being reproduced and distributed through J.R. Burrows & Company of Massachusetts. The closest place to view her original work may be the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.
Hunt down a copy of Candace Wheeler: The Art and Enterprise of American Design 1875-1900 by Amelia Peck if you would like to know more about this special designer.
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