| Biography | The Central School of Art and Design, formerly the Central School of Arts and Crafts, was established by the London County Council in 1896 to provide specialist art teaching for workers in the craft industries. The school was intended to be a centre at which art scholars and students could be brought under the influence of established artists and employers. The aim was a direct outcome of the Arts and Crafts movement sponsored by William Morris and John Ruskin. The Royal Female School of Art, founded in 1842, was transferred to the London County Council and was incorporated into the Central School of Art and Design in 1908. The architect, educationalist and conservationist William Lethaby was a key figure in the foundation of the school and was appointed joint principal with George Frampton from 1896 to 1911. Under Lethaby the Central School of Art and Design was innovatory in both its educational objectives and teaching methods. The majority of teachers were successful practitioners of their crafts, and provided the school with a variety of practical skills and valuable contacts with the creative industries. |