During the Sunrise and Sunset Workshop, I offered a constructive critique for each participant’s artwork. A number of them tended to be somewhat overly meticulous in their execution. They concentrated too heavily on precise shapes and intricate details, which detracted from encapsulating the essence of their subjects. I recommended that they delve into the works of Joseph Turner—not his refined, studio creations, but his spontaneous sketches typically created using watercolor or gouache. These pieces are vibrant and rich in character. This sense of liveliness is what you should strive for in your own creations. While polish can be appealing, always aspire to that sense of ease in your work.
Below, I’ve compiled a selection of these sketches. Tracing them down proved to be a challenge, as they are dispersed across various online platforms and found in publications like Turner’s Sketches. Turner himself was quite protective about displaying them publicly, although I trust he won’t mind my showcasing them here. His sketchbooks served as a personal journey and record of his explorations, comprising hundreds of sketches throughout his life.
“Packed away in boxes within his studio, and sprawling across several shelves above a collection of unsold or unfinished canvases, were approximately three hundred sketchbooks chronicling his life and adventures over the past sixty-two years. The contents of these tomes represented countless pages of sketches, predominantly in pencil but occasionally highlighted with splashes of vibrant color, notably in the more recent volumes. Almost no one had ever been granted the opportunity to peer into these volumes, which was precisely how Turner preferred it. Throughout his lifetime, he diligently guarded the mystery surrounding his creative endeavors, particularly when it came to his sketchbooks.” — Ian Warrell, Turner’s Sketchbooks, Page 7
I will refrain from offering further commentary on them. Sometimes, it’s best to soak it all in and appreciate.
If you’re eager to delve deeper, consider joining our Sunrise and Sunset Workshop. There’s just one day left to sign up at a special discounted rate.
Thank you for taking the time to read! I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.
Best regards,
Dan Scott
Draw Paint Academy
At Art Tutor Hanoi, we embrace creativity with our drawing and painting workshops tailored for travelers and expats. Engage with fellow art enthusiasts while exploring your artistic abilities!
