J.M.W. Turner: A Trailblazer in Art

And an Enduring Influence on Photography

Joseph Mallord William Turner (23 April 1775–19 December 1851), the English artist, is one of my favourite artists and a huge inspiration. His work was ground breaking and unique. He changed the ‘rules’ and painted light and colour rather than objects and scenes.

Beyond his immense contribution to the art world, Turner’s impact arguably transcends the boundaries of traditional painting, playing a pivotal role in the evolution and development of photography as we know it today.

Born in London, Turner’s artistic journey began at a young age, as he entered the Royal Academy schools aged 14. It was here that he first exhibited his watercolours, with his early works primarily focusing on the English countryside. Turner’s unwavering dedication to capturing the ephemeral moments of light and atmosphere in nature became a defining characteristic of his artistic style, ultimately shaping his career and leaving a lasting impression on the world of photography.

As Turner’s career advanced, his artworks grew increasingly abstract, with a heightened emphasis on the emotional and evocative aspects of light and colour, rather than realistic representation. This pioneering approach not only set Turner apart from his contemporaries but continues to resonate with photographers and artists today. Turner’s innovative techniques and unique compositions were particularly impactful in the development of landscape photography, inspiring generations of photographers to explore novel ways of capturing the beauty and majesty of the natural world.

‘Photography’ is derived from two Greek words:

“phōtós” which means “light”

“graphé” which means “drawing, writing”

So, “photography” can be translated as “drawing with light” or “writing with light.” And this is an apt description of the process of capturing images using light-sensitive materials or digital sensors.

Photography, as we know it today, was born in 1839 when French artist and chemist Louis-Jacques-Mandé Daguerre publicly announced his invention, the “daguerreotype,” which was the first practical photographic process.

However, the history of photography can be traced back even further in history. As long ago as the 5th Century B.C.E. the basic principles of the camera obscura, were documented by ancient Chinese philosopher Mo-Ti.

Camera obscura (Latin for “dark room”) is an optical device that projects an image of its surroundings onto a screen or other surface. It works on the principle that light travels in a straight line and can be manipulated through lenses and mirrors. This concept served as the foundation for the development of photography.

In 1816, French inventor Nicéphore Niépce created the earliest surviving photograph using a camera obscura and a pewter plate coated with bitumen, but it was Daguerre’s invention that made photography more accessible and popular.

While there is limited information available about Turner’s direct contact with photography or his specific thoughts on the medium, given his innovative and experimental approach to art, it is plausible that he would have been intrigued by photography’s potential for capturing the world in new and unique ways. His own work, which often focused on the ephemeral qualities of light and atmosphere, shares some similarities with the ways in which photography can capture and preserve moments in time.

Turner’s influence on photography can be observed in several aspects:

Emphasis on Light

Turner’s work consistently showcased the immense significance of light and its transformative effects on landscapes. One of his most famous paintings, “The Fighting Temeraire,” exemplifies this, as it hauntingly captures the atmospheric effects of a setting sun. Inspired by Turner’s fascination with light, photographers have embraced this concept, utilizing light as a key element in their compositions and exploring its unparalleled ability to create mood and atmosphere.

Colour and Tonality

Turner’s groundbreaking use of colour and tonality in his paintings has encouraged photographers to experiment with various colour palettes and tones. A prime example of Turner’s striking use of colour can be found in “The Slave Ship,” a powerful and emotive depiction of a turbulent seascape dominated by rich, dark hues. By adopting a similar approach, photographers have produced more expressive and evocative images that resonate with viewers.

Composition and Depth

Turner’s exceptional ability to create a sense of depth in his paintings through meticulous composition and perspective has been a valuable lesson for photographers seeking to add dimensionality to their work. In “Rain, Steam and Speed — The Great Western Railway,” Turner’s skilful use of diagonal lines and atmospheric perspective generates a dynamic sense of depth and movement, offering photographers a masterful example of effective composition.

Turner’s impact on the world of art and photography cannot be overstated. Through his relentless pursuit of capturing the ethereal beauty of light and colour, Turner fundamentally altered our perception of the natural world and laid the foundation for future generations of photographers. While we can only speculate about Turner’s thoughts on photography, his enduring influence on the art world and his pioneering spirit continue to inspire artists and photographers to this day. As we continue to be captivated by the enchanting landscapes and seascapes that Turner so masterfully captured, we are reminded of the profound and enduring influence that his work continues to have on the ever-evolving world of photography.