From the Isola Borromena, Lago Maggiore c. 1795

J.M.W. Turner made this watercolor of Isola Borromena on paper, using delicate washes of pigment. The blurred shapes and muted tones create a dreamlike atmosphere. But the real magic is in how Turner uses the paper itself. Look closely, and you’ll see he allows the white of the paper to shine through, suggesting the shimmering light on the water and the hazy distance of the mountains. This technique demanded skill and planning, controlling the flow of the watercolor to build up layers of color and tone. Turner was not just painting a scene, but evoking an experience. Watercolors were portable, relatively inexpensive and quick to use - perfect for an artist on the move. Turner's choice of this medium reflects a shift in artistic practice. Watercolor allowed him to capture fleeting moments and impressions of landscapes that resonated with the growing romantic sensibility of the time. Considering the materials and the making helps us appreciate Turner's talent, and also understand how his art was connected to broader cultural trends.