top of page

ABOUT  TURNER

JMW Turner was described as the ‘father of modern art’ by John Ruskin

 

Portrait of JMW Turner

There is a self-portrait of J. M. W. Turner at Tate Britain which it dates to 1798 or 1799, when he was 23 or 24 years old.

Joseph Mallord William Turner was a British painter, born in London in 1775. He is considered one of the greatest landscape and seascape painters in the history of art. Turner's paintings are known for their vivid colours, dramatic contrasts of light and dark, and atmospheric effects.

Turner showed an early talent for drawing, and by the age of 14, he was studying at the Royal Academy of Arts in London. His early works focused on historical subjects and landscapes, but he soon began to experiment with new techniques and subjects.

In the early 1800s, Turner began to travel extensively throughout Europe, where he was inspired by the landscapes and architecture he saw. He also studied the work of the Old Masters and began to incorporate their techniques into his own art.

Turner's work underwent a radical transformation in the 1820s and 1830s, as he became increasingly interested in capturing the effects of light and atmosphere in his paintings. His later works often feature swirling, abstract compositions, with bold brushstrokes and intense colours.

Despite his immense talent and fame, Turner was known for his reclusive nature and eccentric behaviour. He never married and lived a largely solitary life, spending most of his time in his studio or traveling.  He died in 1851.

Today, Turner's work is widely admired for its beauty, technical mastery, and emotional power. His legacy can be seen in the work of countless artists who have been inspired by his bold, innovative approach to painting.

bottom of page