Turner seascapes and Damien Hurst sharks: Liverpool anniversary exhibition hopes to surprise

Turner seascapes and Damien Hurst sharks: Liverpool anniversary exhibition hopes to surprise

The anticipation surrounding a significant JMW Turner exhibition is bound to be met with surprise as visitors encounter works by artists like Jeff Koons and Damien Hirst, a Bridget Riley stripe painting, and even some Doc Marten boots on display. Melissa Gustin, curator of British art at National Museums Liverpool, expressed that the initial shock is intentional. She aims for visitors to eventually understand the connections, histories, and legacies encapsulated within the exhibition.

The 250th anniversary of Turner’s birth this year has sparked a multitude of Turner shows globally, with at least 24 identified by Gustin. The show at the Walker Art Gallery in Liverpool, curated by Gustin over two years, emphasizes Liverpool’s remarkable collection of Turners while delving into Turner’s influence and legacy on subsequent generations of artists.

Despite the abundance of Turner paintings available for viewing, the exhibition also explores contemporary art and its connection to Turner’s works. Turner grappled with current issues that are still relevant today, ranging from climate breakdown to the role of artists in society. Additionally, a significant number of Liverpool’s 19th-century art patrons collected late Turner works, enabling the city to possess rare pieces like The Falls of the Clyde and The Wreck Buoy.

The exhibit juxtaposes Turner’s traditional works with those of modern and contemporary artists like Bridget Riley, Maggi Hambling, Monet, and Pissarro. By showcasing Turner’s impact on later generations, the show invites visitors to engage with a diverse range of art styles and interpretations. Gustin emphasized the importance of contemporary artists like Jeff Koons, who loaned a unique piece for the exhibition, highlighting the enduring relevance and influence of Turner’s art in the modern age

Read the full article from The Guardian here: Read More