JMW Turner, Waves Breaking on a Lee Shore at Margate (Study for 'Rockets and Blue Lights') c.1840. Image courtesy of Tate
Turner 250: Breaking Waves
Celebrating JMW Turner and a new brand for Turner Contemporary #Turner250
Turner Contemporary is proud to celebrate Turner 250, marking 250 years since the birth of JMW Turner, with the display of his remarkable painting Waves Breaking on a Lee Shore at Margate (Study for Rockets and Blue Lights), c. 1840. Opening on 8 April, this presentation offers audiences a rare opportunity to experience one of Turner’s masterful depictions of the Kent coastline, reinforcing the gallery’s deep connection to his legacy.
The painting, likely created in Margate, captures the raw energy of a stormy sea viewed safely from the shore. Looking east towards the Stone Pier and lighthouse, the composition suggests an unseen vessel battling the turbulent waters. Executed during a period of experimentation, the wide landscape format heightens the drama and emotional intensity of the scene, exemplifying Turner’s fascination with the sea and coastal landscapes.
Art historian Ian Warrell has penned an insightful essay accompanying the display. His exploration of the historical context, technical aspects, and emotional resonance of Waves Breaking on a Lee Shore at Margate sheds light on its significance within Turner’s oeuvre. Warrell’s essay will be available as part of the exhibition, enriching visitors’ understanding of this iconic artwork and its impact on the portrayal of coastal landscapes in art.
A new brand for a bold vision
In conjunction with Turner 250, Turner Contemporary is unveiling a new visual identity, developed in collaboration with the award-winning design studio Graphic Thought Facility. The new brand reflects Turner’s radical spirit of enquiry and his innovative approach to light, colour, and the depiction of nature. In the same way, Turner Contemporary’s new visual identity embraces innovation and creativity, while staying true to the gallery’s mission to spark dialogue, inspire curiosity, and offer new perspectives through art. The new design incorporates bold, dynamic elements that echo Turner’s ability to capture the ever-changing landscape, from stormy seas to tranquil skies.
To ensure a seamless digital experience, Turner Contemporary has partnered with One Darnley Road to roll out the brand identity across its website and digital platforms.
Clarrie Wallis, Director of Turner Contemporary, commented:
“The launch of our new brand during Turner 250 is a defining moment for Turner Contemporary. Our new identity reflects the transformative power of art, while the display of Turner’s Waves Breaking on a Lee Shore at Margate pays tribute to his genius and lasting impact.”
A tribute from Tracey Emin
On Turner’s birthday, 23 April, a projection of Tracey Emin’s A Poem—her love letter to JMW Turner—will illuminate the Turner Contemporary building. Emin, one of Margate’s most celebrated contemporary artists, finds deep inspiration in Turner’s emotive use of light and atmosphere.
The projection will serve as both a tribute to Turner and a testament to Margate’s thriving contemporary art scene, highlighting the town’s ongoing artistic legacy and its ability to inspire generations of artists.
Educational initiatives
The gallery is launching a free JMW Turner schools’ resource, allowing students to explore Waves Breaking on a Lee Shore at Margate during their walk between Margate train station and the gallery.
In addition, Turner Contemporary will host Young Creatives in summer 2025, a free exhibition showcasing works by young artists (under 25) from Kent and Medway. Inspired by Waves Breaking on a Lee Shore at Margate, submissions are open until 9 May 2025, with selected works to be displayed in the Clore Learning Studio in collaboration with the RNLI.
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Notes to Editors
For all press enquiries, please contact: press@turnercontemporary.org
About Turner Contemporary
Turner Contemporary is one of the UK’s leading art galleries, located in Margate, Kent. The gallery presents an ambitious programme of exhibitions, events, and learning opportunities, inspired by JMW Turner’s legacy and his connection to Margate.
Designed by David Chipperfield, Turner Contemporary opened in 2011 and has since played a pivotal role in the cultural and economic regeneration of the region. The gallery has welcomed over 4.4 million visitors, contributed more than £80 million to the Kent economy, and fostered meaningful connections with local communities.
turnercontemporary.org
Turner 250 celebrates 250 years since the birth of JMW Turner, one of Britain’s most influential artists. Through a year-long programme of exhibitions, events, and partnerships, Turner Contemporary will honour his enduring impact and his spirit of artistic innovation.
#Turner250
About Tracey Emin
Tracey Emin is one of the UK’s most celebrated contemporary artists, who grew up in Margate. Her work is known for its autobiographical and confessional nature, spanning drawing, painting, sculpture, film, photography, neon text, and sewn appliqué. Emin has often cited JMW Turner as a key influence, particularly in his ability to evoke emotion through light and movement.
About Graphic Thought Facility
Graphic Thought Facility is an internationally acclaimed design studio known for creating impactful and considered brand identities across cultural and commercial projects.
GraphicThoughtFacility.com
About One Darnley Road
One Darnley Road is a creative agency specialising in the digital transformation of cultural organisations. Through expert UX/UI design and development, the agency designs elegant, intuitive experiences that bring audiences closer to art, culture, and ideas.
OneDarnleyRoad.com
About the RNLI
The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) is a charity dedicated to saving lives at sea. Since its founding in 1824, the RNLI has provided a 24-hour lifeboat search and rescue service around the coasts of the United Kingdom and Ireland. The organisation also works to promote water safety through education and training initiatives, ensuring that people can enjoy the sea safely. As a partner in Turner Contemporary’s Young Creatives exhibition, the RNLI reinforces its commitment to engaging local communities and supporting creative projects that highlight the significance of the sea in our lives.
RNLI