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Understanding the Revolutionary Art of J.M.W. Turner

Joseph Mallord William Turner (23 April 1775 – 19 December 1851) was an English Romantic landscape painter, watercolourist and printmaker, whose style can be said to have laid the foundation for Impressionism. He is known for his expressive colourisations, imaginative landscapes, and dramatic and romantic scenes. Turner was born in London, the son of a barber, and he entered the Royal Academy of Arts in 1789, aged just 14.

During his lifetime, he was both praised and criticised for his extraordinary paintings, which sometimes had a visionary quality. He was often considered to be a controversial figure due to his unconventional painting style and eccentric subject matter. His works were often challenging to traditional artistic conventions and often pushed the boundaries of artistic expression.

Turner was highly prolific, producing over 550 oil paintings, 2,000 watercolours, and 30,000 sketches and drawings. His works depicted a range of subjects including landscapes, seascapes, architecture, and historical events. He also experimented with a variety of media and techniques, such as printmaking, lithography, and watercolour.

Turner's landscapes are particularly notable for their vividness and vibrancy. He often used intense colour to convey the feelings and atmosphere of his subjects, and he was known for his use of light and shade to create depth and atmosphere. In addition to his landscapes, Turner was also fascinated by the sea and produced numerous works depicting ships in storms, as well as calmer scenes of boats and sailing vessels in ports.

Turner's work is considered to be a precursor to the Impressionist movement, and he is often regarded as one of the most influential painters of the 19th century. His influence is evident in the works of many later artists, including the French Impressionists. Turner's paintings can be found in many major galleries around the world, including the Tate Britain in London.