Royal Society of Arts

Manawatu Times, Volume 61, Issue 292, 10 December 1936, Page 10

Royal Society of Arts

NEW ZEALANDER HONOURED LONDON, Nov. 14. The Council of the Royal Society of Arts has decided to establish a new and high distinction to bo conferred upon designers in industry. New Zealanders will be specially interested to know that Mr Keith D. P. Murray, A.R.1.8.A., formerly of Auckland, is one of ten men, all noted designers, upon whom the distinction has been bestowed. Mr Murray’s designs in cut glass, pottery and silver have been notable for some years past. At the British Art in Industry Exhibition at Burlington House in 1933, many of the most outstanding exhibits were, as Sir William Llewellyn subsequently remarked, found to be Keith Murray’s pieces, and ever sinco then his designs have become widely known, alike in' London, Copenhagen, Brussels, and other centres where design is appreciated. It is the very’ simplicity of his form and treatment that compels attention. Each piece that leaves his hands bears his name, which now’ is so well known that if a purchaser goes to any leading stores and asks for a “Keith Murray” design in cut glass, pottery or silver, it is instantly produced.

Further, Mr Murray has been responsible for the lay-out of more than one important exhibition of designs in art displays that have been held in London. As described by the Council of the Royal Society of Arts, Mr Keith Murray, after becoming a leading architectural black-and-white artist, turned to the designing of table glass, and has designed for one of tho principal English manufacturers for many years. Later he turned his attention to silver, pottery and glass. His Wedgwood pieces are well known.