Derek Morris: A Life Dedicated to Sculpture and Teaching
The artistic community mourns the loss of Derek Morris, a respected sculptor and educator who passed away at the age of 85. Morris served as a sculpture tutor at the Norwich School of Art, now known as Norwich University of the Arts, for an impressive quarter of a century until his retirement in 1990.
Building a Renowned Sculpture Programme
Appointed as the sculpture course leader in 1971, Derek Morris played a pivotal role in elevating the discipline's reputation at the institution. Under his guidance, the programme flourished, becoming a top choice for art students throughout the 1980s. His leadership was characterised by a steadfast belief that sculptural concepts must be grounded in a profound understanding of materials and techniques.
This philosophy was not merely theoretical; it was vividly reflected in Morris's own artistic practice. Works such as Red Configuration, a ceramic piece from 1993, and Seven Coloured Trapezoids, a plywood creation from 2019, exemplify his commitment to material exploration. He often remarked that regular studio work was essential to his sense of purpose, a dedication he pursued more intensely after leaving teaching.
Early Influences and Academic Journey
Born in Birmingham, Derek Morris was immersed in a creative environment from childhood. His mother, Connie, was a skilled weaver and embroiderer, while his father, Jack, worked as a draughtsman and pattern maker for decorative sculpture. This early exposure to craftsmanship undoubtedly shaped his future path.
After attending King Edward's grammar school in Birmingham, Morris earned a first-class fine art degree from the University of Newcastle upon Tyne. A Hatton scholarship in 1962 allowed him to continue his studies there for an additional year. It was during this time that he met Christina Rich, an undergraduate whom he married in 1963.
His academic pursuits included further study at Chelsea School of Art and a return to Newcastle University before he began his teaching career in 1966 on the foundation course at Norwich School of Art. He later specialised as a sculpture tutor and eventually rose to course leader.
Life in Norfolk and Post-Retirement Pursuits
While teaching, Morris settled with his family in Tasburgh, Norfolk, where he renovated a 15th-century thatched cottage. In retirement, he not only dedicated himself to sculpture, exhibiting regularly across East Anglia, but also cultivated other passions. He became an accomplished gardener and cook, notably finishing as runner-up in a 1992 Observer cookery competition and winning a regional semi-final of BBC TV's MasterChef series in 1995.
From 1998 to 2004, Morris served as president of the Royal British Society of Sculptors, now the Royal Society of Sculptors, where he helped expand its international membership.
Legacy and Family
Derek Morris is survived by his wife, Christina, their children Abigail, Nathan, Simeon, and Lucy, and grandchildren Ottilie, Rufus, and Agatha. His contributions to art education and the sculptural community leave a lasting impact, remembered through both his teachings and his diverse body of work.
