The Victorian House of Arts and Crafts

The Victorian House of Arts and Crafts is an immersive, informative, and captivating television series produced by the renowned British broadcaster, BBC2 in 2019. As an unscripted reality show embedded in a historical context, it offers an engaging and informative journey into the world of traditional craftmaking, with a special focus on the Victorian Arts and Crafts Movement in the UK. Each episode of this series is a cocktail of creativity, nostalgia, craftsmanship, and competition.

Over the course of the program, the viewers follow six 21st-century crafters – pottery enthusiast and ceramicist; silversmith; jeweler; embroiderer; woodworker; and a specialist in stained glass - who are transported back to the early 1900s in order to live and work in a remote country house set up to mimic a typical Arts and Crafts commune. Within the walls of this historical recreation, they are given the unique opportunity to step away from their modern, technology-dominated lives to immerse themselves in the principles, techniques, and mindset of the Victorian Arts and Crafts movement.

One of the main objectives of the series is to challenge each of the crafters with an array of projects that remain true to the ethos of the Arts and Crafts movement which is all about 'joy in labour', quality materials, and simplicity in design. The tasks are carefully selected to hark back to an era when gadgets didn't define productivity and making by hand was the norm. The participants are provided with the same tools, resources, and raw materials that would have been used by the Victorians, creating an authentic experience that transcends the boundaries of time.

The Victorian House of Arts and Crafts series expertly navigates this interesting dichotomy between historical accuracy and contemporary relevance. It shows us the contrast between modern craft and the traditional methods used during the movement, while encouraging us to question the relevance and value of the handmade in our own lives. As the crafters adapt to their newfound environment and learn to navigate the painstaking yet rewarding process of traditional arts and crafts, the viewer gains a deeper appreciation for this bygone era.

This stimulating four-part series is beautifully narrated and interspersed with expert comments from historians, Arts and Crafts specialists, and other experts in this field. In addition to providing knowledge about the movement and its principles, these insights significantly contribute to the show's informational impact. They vividly illustrate the philosophy behind the movement and its impact in shaping the way we think about art, design, and manufacturing, not only in the Victorian era but also in contemporary times.

As the crafters occupy the house, acting out the daily tasks of maintaining the household and garden, cooking traditional meals, and working on their craft assignments, viewers get a painstakingly accurate insight into what life and work were like in a late Victorian arts and crafts community. Their struggles, triumphs, interactions, and growth are all played out against the exquisite backdrop of the idyllic English countryside, further enriching the viewing experience.

While it's great to see modern crafters put to the test and see how they respond to the constraints and opportunities of the past, The Victorian House of Arts and Crafts is not merely about craft and creativity. It’s also an exploration of camaraderie, community, and shared values. The shared experience compels the participants to form mutual support networks, highlighting how the process and environment foster collaborative working and community spirit, another central tenet of the Arts and Crafts movement.

The Victorian House of Arts and Crafts from BBC2 explores how our predecessors lived, loved, and learned while creating beautiful handcrafted items. The result of their journey is not just a tribute to the stunning aesthetics of the Arts and Crafts era, but also to the philosophy of the movement, which championed artisanal craftsmanship against mass production, highlighting the deeply personal joy inherent in the act of creating something with one's own hands.

So, whether you’re an art enthusiast, a history lover, or simply someone who enjoys learning about different lifestyles and time periods, The Victorian House of Arts and Crafts offers an array of thought-provoking, insightful, and entertaining moments for everyone.