Following their exploration of Pierre Auguste Renoir’s legacy, Art for Guernsey embarked on a journey to discover the works and influence of Joseph Mallord William Turner’s visit to Guernsey, circa 1832. Turner is known to have sketched extensively throughout the Bailiwick, and his “Guernsey” sketchbook is held at Tate Britain as part of the bequest from the artist’s estate.
Art for Guernsey invited schools to join them on this journey by creating a mural to feature in the Finding Turner 250th Anniversary Exhibition, which showcases artworks by Merlyn Chesterman, Damon Kowarsky, Charley Mcfarley and Gideon Summerfield. The Turner Trail was the starting point for the project – a series of installations in the landscapes that mark the most notable locations captured by Turner in his sketchbook. The charity provided schools with boards to be painted with different media, and asked that one of Turner’s sketches located on the Turner Trail be included in some way, together with inspiration taken from the work of a second artist.
The schools were given a brief to incorporate elements of Turner’s style, moving away from literal representation. Jock Pettitt, Curation Director of Art for Guernsey, said:
“This is quite simply one of the most comprehensive responses we’ve had from the schools on any project. They were given the same brief as the artists to respond to Turner’s legacy in his 250th anniversary year and, having curated the exhibition upstairs in the gallery, I was blown away by the standard and creativity of the work on show. It’s a must-see for anyone, whether or not their children were involved.”
Art for Guernsey would love you to join them on Thursday evening for the unveiling of these fantastic murals.
