CHRISTOPHER DRESSER EXHIBITION IN SLEAFORD, LINCS

Image: Silver plate tea set, designed by Christoper Dresser for Richard Hodd and Son, 1882. Private Collection; photo by Jules Lister

Christopher Dresser (1834–1904) is widely regarded as Britain’s first industrial designer. A leading figure in the Aesthetic Movement, he embraced modern manufacturing processes to create affordable, functional, beautiful objects for the Victorian middle class, offering designs and ideas that remain radical and relevant today.

The Hub, a national centre for craft and design, presents Christopher Dresser: The Pursuit of Beauty, a major exhibition celebrating his work and legacy. Focusing on designs for the home, the exhibition brings together some 180 objects from private collections across the UK, many of which have never been publicly displayed. Ceramics, glass, metalwork, furniture and printed material reveal the remarkable breadth of Dresser’s output.

The exhibition showcases work produced by many manufacturers Dresser collaborated with, including ceramics from Linthorpe Art Pottery, cast iron objects made by Coalbrookdale Company, and designs in Clutha glass from James Couper & Sons. It also features silver-plated tea sets and toast racks from James Dixon & Sons. Work by four contemporary artists whose work echoes Dresser’s innovative use of materials and design processes is also displayed: Gabriele Beveridge, Alice Channer, Coco Crampton, and Magdalene Odundo.

The free exhibition runs from 28 November 2026 to 7 March 2027. For more information, visit the website Christopher Dresser: The Pursuit of Beauty | Hub Sleaford