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JMW Turner:  Prints, Process & Picnic Baskets

June 3, 2014

Turner - Dartmouth

The MMA collection boasts a collection of 94 mezzotints and engravings by Joseph Mallord William Turner (1775 – 1851), considered the greatest landscape painter of his generation and often referred to as ‘the painter of light’.

In order to bring his painted landscapes and seascapes to a wider public, Turner painstakingly supervised a team of master engravers in the production of folios of his images. McMaster’s prints were produced by Turner and his team. Most are unpublished proofs, works in progress and for many images we have more than one version. This allows us to see Turner’s process and reveals his creativity in action.

Spot the difference between this detail from the print above and a later version of the image.

JMW Turner - detail of Dartmouth Castle mezzotint and engraving
JMW Turner – detail of Dartmouth Castle mezzotint and engraving
JMW Turner - detail of Dartmouth Castle
JMW Turner – detail of Dartmouth Castle mezzotint and engraving (w/picnic basket)
Turner - Dartmouth

In related news, Timothy Spall has just received the best actor prize at the 2014 Cannes Film Festival for playing JMW Turner in Mike Leigh’s new film, Mr Turner. It has received great reviews so far and will be in theatres later this year. Check out the trailer for the film below:

Mr. Turner

VIEW ARCHIVE
Link to News Archive for a complete list of past news articles

Recognizing Emerging Voices: 2026 Integrated Arts (iArts) Awards at the McMaster Museum of Art
May 7, 2026

The McMaster Museum of Art is proud to present and celebrate this year’s graduating Integrated Arts students through a series of awards, recognizing artistic excellence, collaboration, and innovation. From work that reflects the core values of the School of the Arts to projects that push creative boundaries and foster community — the SOTA Mission Award, Leadership & Community […]

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Christina Leslie Announcement on TFVA Award and Acquisition of Pinhole Remix (2020) for M(M)A Collection.
April 28, 2026

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Beyond February: Collecting Care and Reimagining Black Histories
March 3, 2026

The Black Madonnas of Perpetual Murmurs 19, 2023 collage, composition gold leaf, cutout on paper Museum of Art Collection Trust, 2024 As this year’s Black History Month come to a close, the McMaster Museum of Art wishes to extend its sincere appreciation to the Equity and Inclusion Office for their leadership and dedication in creating […]

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