J.M.W. Turner & His Contemporaries exhibition opens at Victoria Gallery & Museum

A new exhibition celebrating the vibrant world of J.M.W. Turner (1775–1851) and his contemporaries has opened at the University of Liverpool’s Victoria Gallery & Museum (VG&M).

J.M.W. Turner & His Contemporaries: Watercolours from the University of Liverpool Collection is on display until 31 May 2025, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of Turner’s birth on 23 April 2025.

This exhibition delves into the ‘golden age’ of British watercolour painting, a transformative period that saw the rise of an extraordinary generation of artists. Featuring works from the University’s collection, the exhibition showcases the brilliance of Turner alongside that of 17 other renowned artists of the era.

Exhibition highlights include five watercolours by J.M.W. Turner which trace his development as an artist. With The Old Mill, Ambleside, 1798 we see an example of Turner’s early work which followed the rustic, picturesque style of painting.

In contrast, his Vale of Ashburnham, Sussex from around 1816, with its golden hues, reveals Turner’s artistic homage to the French ‘old master’ Claude Lorrain (1600 – 1682). While Turner’s mature style, with his virtuosic depiction of atmospheric effects of weather, is revealed in his St Michael’s Mount, Cornwall from the mid-1830s.

Complementing Turner’s work are watercolours from other leading artists of the time, including Thomas Girtin (1775–1802), John Sell Cotman (1782–1842), David Cox Snr (1783–1859), and Samuel Prout (1783–1852), among others. Together, these pieces reveal the interconnected lives, artistic exchanges, and shared influences of this remarkable artistic community.

Dr Amanda Draper, Curator of Art and Exhibitions at Victoria Gallery & Museum said:

“J.M.W. Turner is widely regarded as Britain’s greatest painter. His groundbreaking approach to art, experimentation, and ability to evoke drama and atmosphere remain profoundly influential.

“This exhibition invites visitors to immerse themselves in the unique styles and perspectives of Turner and his contemporaries, offering a deeper understanding of this dynamic artistic era. We’re thrilled to celebrate the 250th anniversary of Turner’s birth with this special display, which not only highlights his genius but also explores the relationships and influences that shaped the British art scene.

“What’s particularly notable is that Turner’s The Eruption of the Soufrière Mountains in the Island of St Vincent, 1812 – a major oil painting from the University’s collection – is also currently on show, giving visitors a unique opportunity to view all six of the University of Liverpool’s works by Turner, which have not been exhibited simultaneously for more than a decade.”

J.M.W. Turner & his Contemporaries: Watercolours from the University of Liverpool Collection is on display until 31 May 2025 and is free to enter.

Find more events across Liverpool City Region here.