I travelled to Oxford to visit the 'Modern Art Oxford', as there is an exhibition of Andy Warhol & William Morris' work. Obviously the Andy Warhol stuff wasn't to my interested, but William Morris' ornaments hugely inspired me with my borders.
You aren't allowed to take photos of anything within the gallery space, so I apologise for the very secretive photos.
I really like the ornament used below, and also think the 'Co' sign is typical of it's era, something I would like to include.
A seemless pattern which I think would be too complicated when in just black and white:
A very orinimental border which would be too complex to use. However I like the swash on the R of 'DECORATION'. It's also great to see all capitals used in titling.
The pattern below is also really complicated. But I like the use of a dark green, something I will consider using in my cover.
The drop cap letter used below is absolutely beautiful. If I had more time I would consider adding drop caps letters, filled with ornaments.
The leaves used in the border below are typical of the era, something I would like to use with my borders (in a more simplified form).
Some more simplified tiling options. I like the bottom border, just above 'Kelmscott'.
Incredbile detail. Obciously I could not work this detailed, but the way in which leaves and plant stems are used could prove useful.
Closeups of the previous image:
Conclusion
I found this trip to be hugely inspiring, not just for the ornaments, but alternate characters for my typeface too. I intend on looking into William Morris' work more, hopefully getting some better imagery online.
