On the home page I asked whether Dresser's philosophy was still valid today. It is not the purpose of this project to produce a definitive answer but to put forward the beliefs that underpinned Dresser's approach to designing and consider whether they are still worthwhile almost a hundred years after his death.
Dresser believed that people's surroundings influenced their well-being, that art should be available to everyone regardless of their socio-economic status and that mass-production did not automatically lead to ugliness but could be used just as easily to fashion beautiful objects.
The 19th century was a time which saw an expansion of the political power of western Europe and particularly of Britain. This was associated with a growth in scientific understanding and technological development which led to increased wealth and produced the conditions which supported the global struggle for territories with their associated markets and raw materials - the foundations for the institution of imperialism.
Dresser was designing against the background of the British Empire at the height of its power. The general Victorian ethos was one of confidence in the future even though there were debates over the best way of securing that future. An indication of what Dresser felt was of vital importance may be deduced from what we would now classify as his logo, "Knowledge is power".
Although all of his products did not appeal to contemporary taste, in particular his glass and metalware, he was nevertheless considered a leader in the field of design during his lifetime and, by implication, the beliefs on which he based his work were also highly regarded. Although Dresser's influence faded quickly after his death I think his beliefs are just as valid today as they were during his lifetime.
