Turner's Sketchbooks

‘Turner’s Sketchbooks is the first single volume devoted to the visual notes that he made obsessively for 62 years. Sketches range from the fragmentary scribble that became Rain, Steam and Speed to miniature masterpieces. Perfect for fans of Mr Turner.’ – The Independent

J.M.W. Turner’s sketchbooks provide us with a rare opportunity to witness the building blocks, steps and missteps of an artist unparalleled in impact. They give us a privileged look over Turner’s shoulder, allowing us to witness the creation and development of ideas that can be traced through to his most famous paintings. This book is the first to survey the full range of Turner’s sketchbooks, beginning with his teenage explorations and culminating in the masterful colour studies of his later years.

Ian Warrell is an independent curator specialising in British art of the nineteenth century. He was a curator at Tate for over twenty-five years.