JMW Turner, a titan of British art, is being celebrated this year for his 250th birthday with events throughout the UK. A transformative figure in 19th-century landscape painting, Turner’s legacy includes being featured on £20 notes and inspiring the Turner Prize. Art institutions are gearing up for the Turner250 festival, alongside a BBC documentary and special screenings of the film ‘Mr Turner’.

Tate Britain in London will host an exhibition showcasing Turner’s work alongside rival John Constable, in addition to a collection of his sketches from the Turner Bequest starting in November. Norwich Castle Museum presents its first grouping of four iconic Turner paintings of Surrey’s Walton bridges and additional works from the artist, all part of the ongoing celebrations.

Turner’s self-designed house in Twickenham will display his seldom-seen wildlife depictions for his 250th birthday, while Harewood House in Leeds will connect Turner with Jane Austen through an exhibit featuring their respective works from May to October. Bath’s Holbourne Museum will exhibit Turner’s experimental watercolours from May 23 to August 31, showcasing his bold artistic approach.

The Turner Prize will take place in Bradford this year as part of the UK’s City of Culture programme, with shortlisted artists announced on Turner’s birthday, April 23. This homage celebrates Turner’s enduring impact despite not exhibiting his own work.

JMW Turner, one of Britain’s most celebrated artists, revolutionised landscape painting in the 19th century. He is also prominently featured on the £20 banknote and inspired the establishment of the Turner Prize, which recognises outstanding achievements in contemporary art. The year 2025 marks the 250th anniversary of Turner’s birth, prompting nationwide celebrations and exhibitions that connect his legacy with various cultural institutions across the UK.

This year, as JMW Turner’s 250th birthday approaches, numerous events and exhibitions are being held across the UK to honour his monumental contributions to art. From exhibitions showcasing his works to the prestigious Turner Prize in Bradford, the celebrations provide a comprehensive look at his enduring influence on art and culture.

Original Source: www.timeout.com

The post Celebrating JMW Turner’s 250th Birthday: A Year of Events and Exhibitions in the UK first appeared on The London Bell.

To celebrate the 250th birthday of renowned British artist JMW Turner, cultural institutions across the UK will host a year-long festival featuring special exhibitions and events. Highlights include an exhibition at Turner’s House in Twickenham showcasing rare wildlife images, and a display of Turner’s paintings at Norwich Castle Museum. Tate Britain will present a major exhibition featuring both Turner and John Constable, alongside a new gallery of Turner Bequest works.

Additional events will feature the Turner Prize in Bradford, various digital content releases, and notable books and films. Talks and workshops will include an international art summit and the annual Kurt Pantzer memorial lecture by the Turner Society. Arts Minister Chris Bryant reflected that Turner’s legacy continues to influence British art and public life.

Maria Balshaw from Tate asserted that Turner is a significant figure in British creativity, highlighting that they will present over 150 of his works this year in addition to loaning many others. Turner, born on 23 April 1775 in Covent Garden, rapidly ascended as an artist, attending the Royal Academy Schools at a young age and making a name for himself with both landscapes and historical paintings.

His early works showed promise, paving the way for major commissions and recognition in the art world. Turner became an Academician by 1802 and opened his own gallery shortly after. He passed away on 19 December 1851, leaving a lasting impact and a desire for his final resting place to be among his fellow artists.

JMW Turner is celebrated as one of Britain’s most influential artists, known for capturing dramatic landscapes and evolution in painting techniques. His 250th birthday in 2025 serves as an opportunity for numerous exhibitions and events that reflect his contributions to British art. The year will honour Turner’s legacy through various cultural initiatives and public engagements, engaging audiences with his work.

The celebration of JMW Turner’s 250th birthday will engage the public in various ways, from exhibitions showcasing his art to discussions on his impact on British culture. Turner’s innovations in style and technique have made him a pivotal figure in art history, with institutions across the UK highlighting his work in a series of significant events throughout the year.

Original Source: www.theguardian.com

The post Celebrating 250 Years of JMW Turner: A Year of Cultural Events in the UK first appeared on The London Bell.