The Art and Craft of Hubbard’s Roycroft

From the 2020 "Ruskin, Roycroft and the Arts & Crafts" virtual conference. This presentation discusses how Elbert Hubbard found his inspiration through the writings of John Ruskin and the art produced by William Morris and friends. Hubbard’s dream was to create his own special “utopia” in America where craftspeople would continue in the tradition of the Arts and Crafts Movement. This overview of Elbert Hubbard’s Roycroft Shops will explore the work that was being created between the years 1895-1943. This span, of almost fifty years, will be broken down into four Periods, which will be placed in historical context by way of production and the quality of craft being created. The focus will be on the Roycroft publications, but some examples of other media including copper, stained glass and furniture will be discussed. Mr. Alan Nowicki came to the Roycroft Campus in April of 2010 by way of PBS, after working on the documentary, "Elbert Hubbard: An American Original". He is responsible for all classes and programming on the Campus, including tours, instructors and workshops, the Roycroft art shows, the Roycroft Film Society and Book Club, and special events throughout the year. He gives talks on Roycroft History throughout the region. He has 15 years of experience working in educational programming, professional development and community outreach. Mr. Nowicki has also been a teacher for more than 20 years, having taught in every grade level from Pre-K through college, specializing in art and history. He currently teaches an Art History course at a local college.