14 Facts About Evelyn Gleeson

Evelyn Gleeson was an English embroidery, carpet, and tapestry designer, who along with Elizabeth and Lily Yeats established the Dun Emer Press.

Evelyn Gleeson was born in Knutsford, Cheshire, on 15 May 1855.

Evelyn Gleeson was the daughter of an Irish doctor, Edward Moloney Gleeson.

Evelyn Gleeson's mother was Harriet, from Bolton, Lancashire.

From this, Gleeson went on to study design under Alexander Millar who was a member of the Arts and Crafts movement and a follower of William Morris.

Evelyn Gleeson was struck by Gleeson's aptitude for colour-blending, and at this time a number of her designs were purchased by Templeton Carpets of Glasgow, as Millar was their artistic director.

Evelyn Gleeson was interested in Irish affairs, through her membership of the Gaelic League and the Irish Literary Society.

Evelyn Gleeson was acquainted with the Yeats family and others in the Irish artistic circle in London, drawing inspiration from the romantic Irish revival in art and literature.

Evelyn Gleeson was a member of the suffrage movement and served as chairwoman of the London women's club, the Pioneer Club.

Evelyn Gleeson discussed these plans with the Yeats sisters, Elizabeth and Lily, who although they were talented craftswomen with a network of influential contacts, they could not contribute any money to the venture.

Evelyn Gleeson was charged with the weaving and tapestry and managed the studios overall finances.

Evelyn Gleeson often acted as an adjudicator at various craft competitions around Ireland.

In 1910 Evelyn Gleeson became one of the founding members of the Guild of Irish Art Workers, becoming a master in 1917.

Evelyn Gleeson died 20 February 1944, at Dun Emer, with Kitty carrying on the Guild after her death.