purchased with funds provided by the Charles Disney Art Trust,1991 , collection of Auckland War Memorial Museum, 1991.191, S947

During the early 20th century interest in and teaching of the crafts, especially at technical colleges flourished. Muriel Bernice (nee Carter) McIntosh (born 1907 - died 1989, Auckland) work reflected the style and variety of craftwork taught and produced during this period. Her commitment was reflected in a lifetime of practice and learning.

Taught a variety of skills at Wellington Technical College between 1922 and 1926. Under the tuition of Nelson Isaac and H Linley Richardson, McIntosh also had studied metalwork and jewellery with Walter Biddulph for two years. McIntosh was also introduced to the principles of the Arts & Crafts movement that promoted handcrafted, honest workmanship.

As a student she was the recipient of many awards leading towards her work being exhibited at the British Empire Exhibition, London in 1924 and the New Zealand and South Seas Exhibition, Dunedin in 1925-6.

Her daughter later recalled that ‘Apart from the basically ‘woodcraft for sale’ Muriel did not like and seldom did sell any of her other craft and did not produce any two pieces identical as the creativity became too confused’. She worked also explored the possibilities of other media for her work including ceramics, textile designs, screen-printing and weaving, embroidery, etching, linocuts and woodblock prints.

Her daughter, a pupil at Marsden, described Muriel’s time there as being ‘a wonderful outlet for the seemingly endless energy, drive and ability to impart her skills to at least two generations of pupils. There was always a searching for new crafts, new ideas and constant updating, Each year brought exciting happenings to the art department.’ [JO]

coffee service, Muriel Bernice (nee Carter) McIntosh (born 7 October 1907 - died 19 March 1989, Auckland), New Zealand, circa 1925 - 6