About
John Constable and JMW Turner were the leading British artists of their day. In dialogue with our exhibition, ‘Discover Constable and the Hay Wain,’ we will consider how the two artists developed radically opposing approaches to the emotive power of landscape painting in Britain in the early 19th Century. Turner was dramatic, bombastic and fiery, intended to provoke powerful emotions and elevated thoughts. Whereas Constable was spiritual, heartfelt and closely observed, asking the viewer to react to an intense, inward and personal approach to nature.
Not only did they approach painting in different ways, but their lives were opposites as well. In this session with Dr Matthew Morgan, we will explore Constable's and Turner's different respective approaches to art and life, while also examining their famous bitter rivalry in celebration of the 250th anniversary of their births.
Your Tutor:
Dr Matthew Morgan is a freelance art historian, educator and museum professional. Until recently he was the Museum Director of Turner's House, and he is also an Associate Lecturer at Birkbeck, University of London. He has worked in the heritage sector for over 10 years, including at the Royal Collection, the National Gallery and the Wallace Collection. Prior to that he was a Director in Christie’s Valuation Department. He has contributed to TV documentaries, podcasts, radio shows and has lectured widely across the country and made a series of short films which can be seen on YouTube.
Watch Again
Can't make the session but don't want to miss out? No problem, you can watch again.
The session is recorded and made available to you for 2 weeks.
A video of the week's lecture will be uploaded and available for you to watch via your National Gallery account on Thursday, in time for the weekend.
Format
The session lasts for 2 hours and includes a lecture delivered by the course lecturer followed by a short break and further discussion.
Time will be allowed for questions and discussion via Q&A.
Handouts will be available via your National Gallery account on Monday morning.
Booking Information
This is an online ticketed course hosted on Zoom. Please book a ticket to access the course. Only one ticket can be booked per account.
You will be emailed an E-ticket with instructions on how to access the course via your National Gallery account. All course information including your Zoom link, weekly handouts, and recordings will be available here.
Fire and water: The rivalry of Constable and Turner
Enrol
Standard: £15
Concessions: £14.25
Please book a ticket to access the event. You will receive an E-ticket with instructions on how to access your online events, films and resources via your National Gallery account.
Please note, only one ticket can be booked per account.
Concessions are for full-time students, jobseekers, and disabled adults.