A brand new exhibition at the Twickenham home of artist J.M.W Turner celebrates his 250th birthday.

Until 26 October, 'Turner's Kingdom: Beauty, Birds and Beasts' exhibits rarely seen animal and bird studies from the famous landscape artist in a free event.

Visitors can pay what they wish to visit the artwork at 40 Sandycoombe Road, Turner's Twickenham home.

The exhibit opened on 23 April, what would have been the artist's 250th birthday.

Nicola Moorby, curator of the exhibition, said: "Even die-hard Turner fans may be surprised by these beautiful bird studies. 

"They are so rarely put on display and it is a huge treat to be able to share them in the unique setting of Turner's own house."

The Romantic painter was best known for his landscapes and marine paintings, but this exhibit showcases the artist's personal interest in a range of wild and domestic animals.

The loans are supported by the Weston Loan Programme with Art Fund (credit: Turner'shouse.org).

In the intimate setting of the villa, designed and built by Turner in 1813, the display focuses on the personal side of the secretive artist.

The artwork on show includes studies not seen in almost forty years, on loan from British public collections. 

Turner's own angling equipment, which he used fishing in the nearby Thames, is also on display, loaned by the Royal Academy of Arts.

Turner's House museum asks visitors to book their visit in advance due to the unique qualities of the small villa, but walk-in visits are available. 

The house is open 12-4pm between Wednesday and Sunday, and guided tours are available.

Admission to the house costs £12 per adult, and £3 for children 17 and under.

The exhibition will run until 26 October 2025 (credit: VisitRichmond.co.uk).

Lucy Littlewood, Chair of Turner's House Trust, commented: "During such a special year, it's a pleasure to share this stunning, rarely seen work in the context of other world-class exhibitions taking place across the UK.

"We want to bring more of Turner's character and personality to life within these walls, but we need investment to do so."

South West London, especially the scenery of the Thames and Richmond Hill, were major inspirations to Turner's work.

The artist was born in Covent Garden but lived in Twickenham, Brentford, Isleworth and Hammersmith before his death in 1851.

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