For visitors to The National Gallery of Ireland January usually means one thing – an opportunity to view the popular annual exhibition of watercolours by English artist J.M.W. Turner, as part of a much loved winter tradition that has been underway in Dublin for over a century now.
Following their loan to the National Galleries of Scotland last year, this month sees The National Gallery of Ireland welcoming back 31 watercolours by J.M.W. Turner, meaning that fans of the artist’s work will once again be able to see the watercolours bathed in the weak light of January, here in Dublin.
The annual exhibition offers audiences a glimpse into Turner’s evolving artistry – from English parkland scenes to his expressive visions of Venice and the Alps.
The works first went on show in the Gallery in January 1901, and thanks to the foresight of their benefactor Henry Vaughan, who ensured that they would only ever displayed during the month of January, when natural light levels are at their lowest, the watercolours remain in pristine condition. As visitors will attest, their vivid, glowing colours continue to mesmerise over a hundred and twenty five years later.
This year’s iteration, entitled Turner As Inspiration, has been curated by Anne Hodge, Curator of Prints and Drawings at the National Gallery of Ireland, and is enriched by the inclusion of watercolours and prints by artists who found inspiration in Turner’s mastery of light, colour, and atmosphere.
Works by Hercules Brabazon (1821-1906), William Callow (1812-1908), John Faulkner (1835-1894) and James H. Burgess (1819-1890) highlight Turner’s influence, while Irish artists Jennifer Lane (b.1952) and Niall Naessens (b.1961) pay homage to his enduring legacy.
Together, these works underscore how Turner continues to inspire new artistic generations.
A real treat for art lovers as the new year begins.
The Turner Watercolours are on view in The Print Gallery of The National Gallery until 31 January 2026. Admission is free.
Featured Image: J.M.W. Turner, Sunset over Petworth Park (c) The National Gallery of Ireland
