The lives and works of England’s foremost 19th-century landscape artists are showcased across 12 expansive galleries at Tate Britain. The film accompanying this exhibition captures the subtle rivalry between these two giants of art, as it smoothly transitions from one gallery to another, focusing on individual masterpieces. The film is accompanied by a soothing, timeless score composed specifically for this project by Asa Bennett.
Creating a nearly two-hour feature film dedicated to an art exhibition is a challenging task. Engaging with a painting is a personal experience, and film can dilute this tactile connection. However, the film doesn’t solely focus on paintings. It includes contemporary footage of places like Constable’s cherished Dedham Vale in Suffolk and scenes from London, Turner’s childhood home. Maiden Lane in Covent Garden, where Turner’s father proudly displayed his son’s works in his barber shop window, also makes an appearance.
Throughout the film, excerpts from James Thomson’s celebrated poetry, The Seasons, are read aloud. Experts intermittently discuss the stories behind the paintings, with Lachlan Goudie, a Scottish landscape painter, standing out for his dynamic and passionate commentary. Goudie, often seen both in galleries and in Constable’s beloved countryside, shares insights while equipped with painting tools, reminiscent of Constable’s own methods.
The film highlights the turbulent era these artists lived through. Turner’s adventurous spirit led him to the Alps during a brief respite from the Napoleonic wars, resulting in breathtaking depictions of nature’s grandeur. In contrast, Constable focused on the wealth of his Suffolk surroundings, capturing scenes from Flatford Mill to local grain transport. Modern-day Suffolk still mirrors Constable’s era, creating a seamless connection between past and present. In London, the familiar red buses and Tate Britain’s neoclassical facade anchor the narrative.
This cinematic endeavor provides a serious exploration of the historical and intellectual backdrop of Turner and Constable’s work without excessive embellishment. However, it occasionally leans towards an idealistic portrayal of England’s picturesque landscapes. ‘Turner & Constable’ is currently playing in select UK cinemas, inviting audiences to revisit the serene beauty of England through the eyes of its master painters.
