Petworth through Turner’s eyes

Image: James Dobson

Karen Neville

A new exhibition of J.M.W. Turner’s studies of Petworth celebrates a remarkable landscape seen through the eyes of Britain’s most renowned artist at the National Trust house and park from June 21st to November 16th

For the first time in 20 years, a wide range of J.M.W. Turner’s artistic studies of the extraordinary landscape at Petworth House and Park will be exhibited in the very place that inspired him. Visitors will be able to discover more about his methods, and the impact Petworth had on Britain’s most celebrated artist. 

Turner’s Vision at Petworth will include oil paintings and works on paper on loan from the Tate and several private lenders. This range of objects gives a fascinating insight into Turner’s artistic approach, his experiments with colour and use of materials. They tell the story of his connection with the Petworth landscape, and with George O’Brien Wyndham, 3rd Earl of Egremont (1751-1837) who collected many of his works.  

In addition to the works on display in the exhibition, visitors will be able to see the 20 oil paintings by Turner on permanent display in Petworth House, then step into the very landscape which inspired him: Capability Brown’s 700-acre deer park and Pleasure Garden. 

Petworth House Property Curator Dr Emily Knight said: “We’re excited to show visitors another aspect of the work that Turner produced during his visits to Petworth, from the remarkably expressive sketches and studies that reveal his experimentation as an artist, to the calm grandeur of his finished paintings such as Dewy Morning (1810). This exhibition will enrich people’s understanding of a place that played such a significant role in his life.” 

Born on 23rd April 1775, J.M.W. Turner is widely considered to be one of the most influential British artists of all time. From humble beginnings, he travelled the length and breadth of the country to capture its dramatic scenery, redefining landscape painting in the process. Today he remains a touchstone of British cultural life – the face on the £20 note – and the painter behind some of the most iconic images of the natural world ever created. 

This exhibition is part of Turner 250, a year-long festival of special exhibitions and events. Taking place throughout 2025, the programme celebrates 250 years since the birth of J.M.W. Turner. 

Turner’s Vision at Petworth can be seen in the Exhibition Room at Petworth House, 21st June to 16th November. £10 admission per adult, £5 per child. Under 5s go free. Normal admission to Petworth House also applies.  

For further information, please visit: nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/sussex/petworth/turners-vision-at-petworth