Work by William Hogarth is displayed side by side with local artists in an ambitious exhibition of contrasts at Twickenham’s Orleans House Gallery, writes Claire Fox.

By Design brings together works by more than 80 designers, artists and craftsmen in a showcase of contemporary domestic design. But it’s an exhibition that comes with a twist, say co-curators Betsy Lewis-Holmes and Mark De Novellis.

“It is examining how we live now, really,” explains De Novellis.

“The works on display are inspired by the past but they are produced now, they are very contemporary.

“Even though we have some historical works in the collection, that’s really just to draw stylistic parallels with the past or to echo it.”

Visitors can walk through sections inspired by anything from a stylistic period in time to the elements and they might want to keep an eye out for some of the juxtapositions created by the curators.  The exhibition contrasts the mass-produced with the unique, fine art with design and inside with outside.  “There are things you wouldn’t expect to see in an art gallery,” says Lewis-Holmes.

“In the 50s section, we have an Ikea table on display and then slippers beneath which are totally handmade by local ladies.”

De Novellis adds: “This is really how people purchase today, they will buy something from Ikea but also buy a unique piece and have some things they have inherited.”

Alongside works by international names such as Nic Fiddian-Green and Eel Pie Island’s Trevor Baylis, the exhibition also displays work by some of the gallery’s educational groups, such as the Octagon Art Club for young people with disabilities and by Twickenham schoolchildren.

Beatrice MacLeod, from Waldegrave School for Girls, wrote to the gallery for work experience and included a sample of her work. The curators were so impressed, they snapped up a selection of her work to appear in the 50s section and have even included some of her sketch books to demonstrate her process.

“She was completely overjoyed,” says De Novellis. “You can imagine. It creates such a positive effect for these exhibitors to see their work framed on the wall and the public responses to it. It’s wonderful.”

The exhibition feels like being in someone’s front room, with flickering flames on a television set, rugs, books and a fireplace, and the good news for anyone wanting to recreate the look at home is that most of the items on display are available to buy.

By Design, Orleans House Gallery, Riverside, Twickehnam, until January 31, Tuesday to Saturday 1pm to 4.30pm, Sunday and public holidays 2pm to 4.30pm, free. Call 020 8831 6000 or visit richmond.gov.uk/orleans_ house_gallery for further information.