Joseph Mallord William Turner (1775–1851) is considered to be the greatest British landscape painter in the history of art. Turner’s first job as an architect’s assistant may have led to his interest in art and his entry into the Royal Academy Schools at the age of fourteen. He continued to exhibit work at the Academy his entire life, and he also established his own gallery for the exhibition and sale of his work. His experimentation and innovation with oil paint, watercolors, and the subjects of his paintings led to new possibilities for the artists that followed him.

Turner was inspired by the world around him. The subject of his work ranges from seascapes, landscapes, and mythology to ancient history and current events. At times, several of these subjects are brought together in one painting; resulting in epic and awe-inspiring works. The nine artworks from the exhibition J. M. W. Turner represent various points in Turner’s career. Each is presented with connections to the literature, history, and music of his time. Select one of the images to begin.

Visit Turner Online at Tate Britain for extensive resources on Joseph Mallord William Turner, including a biography, timeline, images, and additional teaching resources.

J. M. W. Turner is organized by the Dallas Museum of Art, the National Gallery of Art, Washington, and The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, in association with Tate Britain, London. This exhibition is supported by an indemnity from the Federal Council on the Arts and the Humanities.

 

 

Bank of America is proud to be the national sponsor. The Dallas presentation is also made possible by The Eugene McDermott Foundation. Generous support is provided by McKool Smith, P.C., Texas Instruments, The Fondren Foundation, George A. and Nancy P. Shutt Foundation, Museum Tower, Tenet Healthcare Foundation, Grant Thornton LLP, and an anonymous donor. Air transportation provided by American Airlines. Promotional support provided by AT&T, KERA, and a Cultural Tourism grant from the City of Dallas Office of Cultural Affairs.