27
May 2026

Fire and Water - The Rivalry of Turner and Constable

Welcome to The Arts Society Windsor
Wednesday, May 27, 2026 - 13:30
Old Windsor Memorial Hall
Straight Road Old Windsor SL4 2RN
Online Event

Two artists developed radically opposing approaches to the emotive power of landscape painting in Britain in the early 19th Century

Two artists developed radically opposing approaches to the emotive power of landscape painting in Britain in the early 19th Century. One was dramatic, bombastic and fiery, intending to provoke powerful emotions and elevated thoughts. The other was spiritual, heartfelt and closely observed, asking the viewer to react to an intense, inward and personal approach to nature. These two artists were JMW Turner and John Constable, the leading British artists of their day. Not only did they approach painting in different ways but their lives were opposites as well. This lecture will explore their different approaches and their famous, bitter rivalry

THE ARTS SOCIETY ACCREDITED LECTURER

Dr Matthew Morgan

 

I am an independent art historian, educator, and museum professional with a passion for sharing the joy of art. Over the years, I have spoken on subjects ranging from Caravaggio to Kehinde Wiley, though my first love remains the work of J.M.W. Turner and my primary focus is European painting of the 18th and 19th centuries.

My career has been dedicated to helping people connect with art in meaningful and enjoyable ways, whether through lectures, exhibitions, or creative learning programs.

I have lectured widely across Britain and Europe, in settings as diverse as universities, festivals and cathedrals as well as Galleries such as the National Gallery, the Royal Collection, the Wallace Collection, the Courtauld Institute and the Victoria and Albert Museum. My degree is from Cambridge, I studied at the Courtauld for my MA and my PhD is from Birkbeck, University of London. 

As Museum Director, I had the privilege of running Turner’s House in Twickenham, dedicated to the great landscape painter. Bringing Turner’s art to new audiences was one of the most rewarding experiences of my career.

I have taught for more than eight years at Birkbeck, University of London, and served as Head of the London Learning Team at the Royal Collection. At the National Gallery, I devised and delivered a wide range of learning events, and earlier in my career I worked as a Director in the Valuations Department at Christie’s.

Beyond museums, I have contributed to TV documentaries, podcasts, and radio programs, and created a series of short films about paintings available on YouTube.

When I’m not immersed in art, you’ll find me enjoying my extensive jazz record collection—usually with a glass of red wine in hand.

Awards, Qualifications & Memberships: 

PhD - University of London
MA - The Courtauld Institute
MA - The University of Cambridge