Books as Art | Elbert Hubbard: An American Original

Elbert Hubbard was a rapt admirer of hand-made books and printing. Inspired by the works produced by William Morris and the English Arts and Crafts Movement, Hubbard started printing The Philistine in 1895 and encouraged skilled printers, typesetters, bookbinders, and illustrators to join the Roycroft community. Students will research the life and works of three artisans of the Arts and Crafts Movement. Walter Crane was a leader in book illumination in England. Dard Hunter was a Roycrofter and an expert in papermaking, graphic design, and typefaces. W.W. Denslow was Hubbard’s favorite illustrator and his artwork is featured in many Roycroft books. Students will also create artwork in the styles of Crane, Hunter, and Denslow.