Melissa White Launches New Wallpaper with Zoffany

Inspired by majestic riverside homes, Zoffany has launched Arcadian Thames, a new collection for SS23. Comprising five prints, five weaves, one embroidery and six wallcoverings, this latest collection pays homage to the revolutionary vision of 18th century nobility, with a curation of enduring masterpieces that celebrate their unwavering commitment to preserving the English landscape.

Meaning ‘rural paradise’, arcadia is a place of virtue and pleasure, narrating centuries, encouraged
bythe Age of Enlightenment and its less restrictive way of thinking. A successor to the formality of Tudor and Stuart times, its eddying waters are where writers, poets and artists gathered.

A bespoke artwork crafted by artisan muralist Melissa White, Arcadian Thames was commissioned by Zoffany especially for the synonymous new collection. Hand drawn using traditional chalk paints, the design frames a vista of riverside life, incorporating elements from London’s Syon House, Garrick Villa, Strawberry Hill House and Hampton Court.

Melissa comments, “Ten years and fourteen designs into my creative journey with Zoffany I was delighted when they approached me again for their Arcadian Thames Collection.

Working collaboratively with Design Director Peter Gomez, my brief, as is often the case, was to dream up a narrative scene to illustrate the overall concept of their collection. For Arcadian Thames I was excited to be asked to create their first floor-to-ceiling scenic wallpaper.

Furnished with reference material and historic context I was given the freedom to explore my own painterly style of folk-inspired decorative painting for this landscape. Mythical beasts roam my fantastical vision of the River Thames and the elegant palaces and country houses dotted along its ebbs and flows.

As one of my most beloved, ongoing, collaborative partners, I often cite Zoffany as the most important connection I made directly via my QEST scholarship.”