Swan and Rush and Iris wallpaper 

Editor: Here we have Walter Crane's *Swan and Rush and Iris wallpaper*. It's such a symmetrical drawing; the cool palette makes me think of a slightly eerie pond at twilight. What do you see in it? Curator: Twilight’s a lovely read of it! It whispers to me of longing and reflection. Crane's work often feels like peering into a fable. The symmetry isn't just visual; it's emotional. It's the idea of looking into a mirror, seeing yourself, seeing the possibility of connection and yet the inherent distance, don’t you think? Editor: I hadn’t thought of the distance part. It seems like they’re about to kiss! Is that just me being hopelessly romantic? Curator: Maybe! But isn’t that the magic? Art dares you to bring *yourself* to the viewing! Those swans – elegant, gliding – were also very fashionable at the time, symbols of beauty but also symbols of transformation and of soulmates. The arts and crafts movement often sought to elevate the everyday, right? Wallpaper becomes a narrative, not just a background. Imagine waking up to that scene every morning. How would that impact your day? Editor: Wow, so it's like… living inside a poem? I guess that’s why they chose such a lovely animal. It makes a lot more sense. Thanks! Curator: Exactly. Every swan song becomes your own! It is beautiful isn't it? It has something new to teach us everyday.