Expanding horizons are a pertinent characteristic of the landscapes of Turner, Constable and McTaggart but can also describe the significant contribution these outstanding artists made to raising the status of landscape painting and challenging viewers’ expectations. McTaggart (1835-1910) was inspired by the example of both Turner (1775-1851) and Constable (1776 -1837) whose 250th birthdays are celebrated this year and next, prompting this timely opportunity to explore the three late works by the artists in the Kelvingrove collection which reflect their considerable experience, mastery of materials and painterly connections.
Ailsa Turner was a tutor in Art History for the University of Glasgow’s Short Courses (Life-Long Learning) programme for seventeen years before her retirement. During her years working for the UofG, Ailsa provided courses and specialist study days on Renaissance Art and Architecture, 17th Century Dutch and Flemish Painting, Spanish and Scottish Painting. Ailsa is a graduate of the Courtauld Institute of Art and before moving to Glasgow with her family was a full time lecturer for ten years in the education department of the National Gallery in London. Ailsa has recently joined the Executive Committee of FoGM as a Trustee.