Turner's Modern World

This book explores J.M.W. Turner's contemporary imagery and his role as a modern artist during a transformative period in history, highlighting his ability to update the language of art and produce definitive interpretations of modern subjects.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 28 October 2020
Publisher: Tate Publishing

This comprehensive publication, released in conjunction with a groundbreaking exhibition dedicated to the art of J.M.W. Turner, aims to shed light on the artist's contemporary imagery, which stands as the most exceptional and distinctive aspect of his illustrious career. Rather than attempting to assert Turner's proto-modernist credentials, the book delves into the definition of modernity and the role of modern artists during his lifetime. Spanning a remarkable era marked by revolution, the Napoleonic War, the rise of Empire, the flourishing of finance capitalism, the shift from sail to steam and mechanization, political reform, and profound scientific and cultural advancements that reshaped society and shaped the modern world, Turner's career witnessed profound transformations. While historians have long acknowledged the profound impact of the late eighteenth-century industrial and political revolutions on society, artists often overlooked these transformative events as they did not align with established pictorial representation categories. This exhibition and its accompanying publication seek to rectify this oversight by presenting Turner as a visionary artist who revolutionized the language of art and transformed his style and practice to offer revelatory and definitive interpretations of modern subjects. Through a meticulous examination of his works, the book explores how Turner embraced the changing landscape of his time, capturing the essence of modernity through his unique perspective and artistic vision. By examining the themes and subjects that captivated him, the publication sheds light on the ways in which Turner challenged traditional artistic conventions and pushed the boundaries of artistic expression. From his depictions of landscapes and seascapes to his representations of urban life and industrial processes, Turner's art offers a profound commentary on the social, political, and cultural forces that shaped his era. Through his innovative techniques and bold use of color and light, Turner created a body of work that remains both visually stunning and intellectually stimulating, resonating with audiences today. By exploring the legacy of J.M.W. Turner and his contribution to the art world, this publication serves as a valuable resource for scholars, art enthusiasts, and anyone seeking to understand the complexities of modernity and the role of artists in shaping our collective history.

Weight: 1486g
Dimension: 241 x 293 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781849767132