John Constable

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b. 1776

John Constable (1776-1837) was an esteemed English landscape painter, considered one of the greatest artists of the Romantic period. Born in East Bergholt, Suffolk, he trained at the Royal Academy Schools in London. Constable's art was deeply rooted in his love for nature, particularly the landscapes and ever-changing skies of Suffolk and Dedham Vale. He meticulously captured the effects of light and atmosphere, creating vivid scenes that epitomised the English countryside. He had an extraordinary ability to capture the nuances of different weather conditions, from vibrant blue skies dotted with fluffy white clouds to brooding stormy skies filled with dark, ominous clouds. His attention to detail and keen observation allowed him to infuse his paintings with a sense of dynamism and atmospheric realism. The sky was more than just a backdrop in Constable's paintings; it played a central role in setting the mood and evoking emotions. He believed that the sky was the "chief organ of sentiment" and dedicated meticulous effort to capturing its ever-changing character. His breakthrough came in 1824 when his painting "The Hay Wain" won a gold medal at the Paris Salon. It became one of his most iconic works and solidified his reputation as a master landscape painter. Constable's emphasis on direct observation of nature and his loose brushwork challenged prevailing norms, influencing the Impressionist movement. His legacy as a profound interpreter of the natural world endures, inspiring generations of artists. John Constable passed away in 1837, but his contributions to art continue to be celebrated worldwide.




Artworks

Current Exhibitions

No Current Exhibitions Found.




Past Exhibitions

We Share the Same Sky - curated by Lewis Dalton Gilbert

Vortic Curated

31 May 2023 - 20 August 2023

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