Elaine Hirschl Ellis Interview
Elaine Hirschl Ellis is the Founder and President of Arts & Crafts Tours, established in 1992 to create small-group, heritage-focused journeys exploring the legacy of the Arts and Crafts Movement in Britain. A recognized authority in the field, she curated the landmark 1981 exhibition A Celebration of Quality: Gustav Stickley and The Craftsman Ideal and helped found the Craftsman Farms Foundation, dedicated to preserving Stickley’s estate. With a B.A. from the University of Michigan and an M.A. in American Studies from Columbia University, Elaine has lectured widely at leading institutions including Winterthur, the Gamble House, and Pasadena Heritage. She has also served on multiple cultural boards and is an Associate Brother of the Art Workers’ Guild.
Discover the Visionaries of Arts & Crafts
We started the interview by asking, “What is the core focus of Arts & Crafts Tours?”
Elaine Hirschl Ellis replied, “Arts & Crafts Tours is dedicated to offering expertly curated, small-group travel experiences that delve into the legacy of the 19th and early 20th century Arts & Crafts Movement. These tours primarily take place across Britain and Europe, with occasional offerings in the U.S., and are designed to provide travellers with a meaningful and educational journey through history, design, and craftsmanship. Participants explore the lives, works, and philosophies of major movement figures such as William Morris, Ernest Gimson, Mary Lowndes, Mary Watts, Philip Webb, and others. Each tour focuses on understanding the cultural, artistic, and architectural contributions that shaped this influential era.”
Personalized Journeys into Arts & Crafts
The Worlds Times – How personalized and intimate are the tour experiences?
Elaine Hirschl Ellis replied, “Arts & Crafts Tours prides itself on creating highly personalized and intimate experiences. With over three decades of expertise, the company designs tours for small groups typically 6 to 12 participants ensuring each guest receives individual attention and a truly immersive journey. These experiences often include exclusive access to private estates, historic homes, artisan workshops, and rare collections that are not open to the public. Evenings are enriched by dinners and conversations with respected scholars, curators, artists, and historians, creating a warm, engaging atmosphere that encourages connection, learning, and appreciation for the Arts & Crafts heritage.”
Guided by Arts & Crafts Experts
The Worlds Times – Who leads these tours, and what expertise do they bring?
Elaine Hirschl Ellis replied, “The tours are led by an unparalleled roster of experts – distinguished scholars, acclaimed curators, visionary architects, insightful historians, celebrated artists, and master craftworkers. In conjunction with several guides, each tour is organized by Elaine Ellis, a distinguished art historian and consultant whose profound dedication to the preservation and study of the Arts & Crafts Movement spans decades. Since founding Arts & Crafts Tours in 1992, drawing on her leadership roles with organizations such as the William Morris Society and the Craftsman Farms Foundation Elaine has instilled a commitment to extensive research, impeccable historical detail, and vital collaboration with local experts. This ensures participants gain profound, authentic insight into the Movement’s vibrant and enduring legacy.”
Explore Tours around Your Favourite Artists
The Worlds Times – Can I join a tour focused on a specific artist or theme?
Elaine Hirschl Ellis replied, “Yes, one of the hallmarks of Arts & Crafts Tours is its ability to focus on specific artists, designers, and themes that interest participants. Carefully planned itineraries are often centered on figures like William Morris, and include site visits to iconic places such as Kelmscott Manor, Red House, and the Morris Gallery. Other thematic tours celebrate the work of pioneering women in the movement such as Mary Watts and May Morris—highlighting their contributions in stained glass, textiles, and social design. These thematic approaches allow travellers to connect more deeply with the stories and significance behind the art and architecture they encounter.”
Unique Experiences for True Enthusiasts
The Worlds Times – What makes these tours unique compared to broader “design” or craft tours?
Elaine Hirschl Ellis replied, “Arts & Crafts Tours stands apart for its scholarly depth, cultural authenticity, and specialized focus. Unlike broader design or craft-focused tours, these experiences are designed for travellers with a genuine passion for the Arts & Crafts philosophy. The itineraries are rich in historical and architectural context, often including behind-the-scenes access to properties not available to the general public. Small group sizes create a comfortable setting for thoughtful discussions, and expert-led commentary adds intellectual depth. Every aspect of the tour from the locations to the dialogue—is thoughtfully curated to inspire, educate, and connect guests to the spirit of the movement.”
Comfort Meets Cultural Immersion
The Worlds Times – What kind of accommodations and services are provided?
Elaine Hirschl Ellis replied, “Guests enjoy accommodations that reflect the charm and historical resonance of the Arts & Crafts aesthetic, such as beautifully preserved manor houses or boutique heritage hotels. The tour packages are designed to be seamless and comfortable, including airport transfers, private transportation, and access to exceptional meals—often in venues of historical or architectural importance. Additionally, guests benefit from expertly organized daily itineraries, guided site visits, and curated conversations with subject matter specialists. Every detail is attended to, ensuring a thoughtful balance of comfort, cultural immersion, and enrichment throughout the journey.”
Enriching, Exclusive, and Unforgettable
Lastly we asked, “What do past participants say about their experiences?”
“Feedback from past participants is overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the tours for their intellectual richness, personalized approach, and memorable moments. Guests often highlight the unique opportunity to dine and converse with historians, artists, and fellow enthusiasts in a welcoming and intellectually stimulating environment. Others speak of the extraordinary access to private homes, collections, and sites rarely open to the public. Many describe their tour as a once-in-a-lifetime experience calling it “pure delight” and “inspiring”—and express how deeply they connected with both the locations and the legacy of the Arts & Crafts Movement spans decades.” Elaine Hirschl Ellis concluded
Connect with Elaine Hirschl Ellis on LinkedIn
For more information visit Arts and Crafts Tours
Also Read:
Diversifying Economies for Sustainable Growth Beyond Oil
Dr. Stoyana Natseva: Awakening Human Potential
Sanjay Borkar: Transforming Global Agriculture
