J. M. W. Turner: Watercolor Horizons

March 1–June 15, 2025 | Sinton Gallery

Happy Birthday, Mr. Turner! Celebrate the 250th anniversary of James Mallord William Turner’s birth by viewing twelve of his watercolors from the Taft Museum of Art and the Cincinnati Art Museum. J. M. W. Turner: Watercolor Horizons is the first exhibition in nearly forty years to bring together the two museums’ luminous works by Turner in this medium. Considered one of Britain’s greatest landscape painters, Turner (English, 1775–1851) was a master of the art of watercolor. A prolific artist and intrepid traveler, he was especially drawn to mountains, alpine lakes, glaciers, river valleys, and the sea, as well as the human presence within these dramatic settings.

Watercolor Horizons features views of Switzerland, Germany, France, England, Scotland, and Italy. The exhibition explores Turner’s skill with a brush on paper through these remarkable landscapes, examples of his innovative techniques, and painting tools from the era on loan from local collections. Because these delicate watercolors are usually kept in storage to protect them from the damaging effects of light, this is a rare opportunity to see these treasures up close and in person.