
'Battle of Trafalgar, October 21 1805' by J.M.W. Turner
Joseph Turner is considered to be a great eighteenth century Romantic landscape painter, but in reality, he was an artist ahead of his time, having created impressionist and abstract style works before Impressionism even began. Turner was an early achiever, having been accepted into the Royal Academy of Arts at 14, and presenting his first exhibition at 15.
He had a fascination of the sea, which was probably sparked by his childhood, having been brought up around water - he lived by the Thames for a short time, then moved to Margate, near the coast. Many of his oil paintings and water colours depict shipwrecks and seascapes, and it is these paintings that the National Maritime Museum are showcasing in their latest Exhibit
Turner and the Sea. Open between the 22nd November - 21st April, tickets are £10 for adults, £8 concessions, and £5 for children.
From dramatic storms to stunning sunsets, discover Turner's pioneering, yet controversial style. His work will be shown alongside other iconic artists such as artists van de Velde, Vernet, Constable, Gainsborough. Highlights include
Wreck of a Transport Ship and
The Fighting Temeraire, which was voted 'Britain's favourite painting'.
A programme of events coincides with the exhibition, such as
The London Jazz Festival, in which Saxophonist, Tim Whitehead, will give a performance and interview about his
Turner and the Thames Series on the 23rd November. There will also be a
Lost at Sea games night for adults, concerts, tours, and children's craft sessions.