Answers from the Arts and Crafts movement in this A.I. revolution
Sharon Webster at UX Brighton 2025
About this talk
The industrial revolution didn’t just evolve ways of working, it triggered great social and economic change. In response to this rise of mass-production, many sought human-centred, ethical craftsmanship - leading to the Arts and Crafts movement.
As we enter another technological turning point with the rapid rise of AI, it’s the perfect moment to reflect on what history can teach us. In this talk, Sharon will draw on the parallels between these two revolutions, and asks what answers can we find from the Arts and Crafts movement to help us navigate the creative and ethical challenges of our present?
About Sharon
Sharon’s journey into UX began with a simple favour: taking notes during a usability study. That moment sparked a lasting passion for user research and for making it accessible, inclusive, and ethical.
With experience both agency-side and in-house, Sharon has worked across a wide range of industries. She brings a fresh, strategic perspective to business challenges through user research, and is driven by curiosity, continuous learning, as well as a strong commitment to doing what’s right by users.
As we move deeper into the AI era, Sharon’s mission is to uphold ethical research practices and empower others to do the same. She thrives on mentoring and leadership, helping individuals and teams grow their UX confidence and careers.
Related reading
Books, research, ideas and people referenced in this talk.
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Concepts
- Arts and Crafts movement05:59The transcript turns to the Arts and Crafts movement as a historical response to industrial change.
- Truth to materials11:58The transcript discusses making materials and processes honest rather than hiding how objects are produced.
People
- William Morris07:56The transcript names William Morris while discussing the movement's approach to making and design.
Projects and resources
- Art Workers' Guild09:22The transcript refers to craft guilds as part of the Arts and Crafts response to industrialisation.
- Artificial Intelligence Act13:01The transcript names the EU AI Act while considering how society should respond to AI.


