A major exhibition on William Turner and English Romanticism is set to open on May 29 at Palazzo del Broletto and the Pinacoteca Civica in Como, Italy. Titled "Turner. L’incanto del lago di Como e del paesaggio italiano," the show features seven precious watercolors inspired by Turner's travels to the Lake Como region, alongside an immersive film produced by Tate Digital. The exhibition traces Turner's stylistic evolution from his 1819 sketches to later chromatic studies from 1842-1843, and is organized by the City of Como in collaboration with the Tate in London.
The exhibition matters because it highlights the profound influence of the Italian landscape, particularly Lake Como, on Turner's artistic development, offering a focused look at a lesser-known aspect of his oeuvre. It also marks a significant cultural partnership between Como and the Tate, elevating the city's international profile. Additionally, a concurrent show at San Pietro in Atrio will feature contemporary British artists Jim Lambie and David Batchelor, linking historical Romanticism with modern interpretations of light and place.