Why J.M.W. Turner is Considered Britain’s Greatest Artist

Turner is regarded as Britain’s greatest artist, celebrated with global exhibitions for his 250th birthday. His works exemplify his impact on modern art, bridging past and present styles. Key exhibitions and significant online collections highlight his artistic legacy and contribution to art history, influencing Impressionism and beyond.

Joseph Mallord William Turner (1775-1851) is celebrated as Britain’s preeminent artist, with exhibitions worldwide marking his 250th birthday. Turner’s work, notably the iconic The Fighting Temeraire, captures the transition to the industrial era, showcasing his significant impact on modern art. Renowned art critic John Ruskin dubbed him ‘the greatest of the age,’ and Turner’s legacy continues with his face on the £20 note and the Turner Prize for contemporary art.

The Turner 250 celebrations will take place until 2025, featuring exhibitions such as Turner: In Light and Shade and Turner’s Kingdom across various galleries, including Tate Britain and the Whitworth. His largest painting, The Battle of Trafalgar, will also return to the Queen’s House. Likewise, Turner’s extensive collection of over 37,000 works will be made accessible online, celebrating his influence globally, notably in locations such as Shanghai.

Turner’s role in art history is highlighted by Andrew Fletcher from Christie’s, framing him as a pivotal link between old and modern masters. Born in London, he joined the Royal Academy at 14 and proved influential early, moving to create landscapes previously undervalued. Turner encouraged abstract expression captured in works like Calais Pier, moving away from traditional representations as he drew inspiration from extensive travels across Europe.

His later works, while initially met with criticism, are now appreciated for their bold use of colour and light, which paved the way for Impressionism and Abstract Expressionism. Turner even received recognition in 1966 with an exhibition at the Museum of Modern Art in New York, where he was regarded as an abstractionist before the term was coined.

Turner’s commitment to painting was complete, often pushing boundaries to perfect his art. He fostered relationships with prominent patrons and critics alike, even if his late works were not universally praised. Notably, his imaginative depictions of technology and nature resonate with contemporary discussions on climate change. Whether through his artistic style or personal life of solitude, he remains deeply connected to various cultural currents, evidenced by his collaborative spirit in engaging with contemporaries in science and literature.

J.M.W. Turner’s enduring reputation as Britain’s finest artist stems from his innovative contributions to art that influenced generations. Celebrated during the ongoing **Turner 250** events, which showcase his vast career and works globally, Turner’s mastery over colour and light pushed the boundaries of traditional representation. His revolutionary approach laid the groundwork for modern artistic movements and continues to resonate today, confirming his remarkable legacy.

Original Source: www.christies.com