Join us as we celebrate the life and work of Thomas Girtin (1775–1802), one of Britain’s most influential landscape artists on the 250th anniversary of his birth.

Described by J.M.W. Turner as the artist who could have surpassed him, Girtin revolutionised watercolour painting with his daring compositions and atmospheric effects. Despite his tragically short life, his impact on British art has endured for generations.

This special exhibition brings together Harewood’s collection of Girtin’s works, offering a rare opportunity to explore the artist’s connection to the estate. Invited in 1797 by Edward ‘Beau’ Lascelles, a great patron of contemporary art, Girtin was not only favoured over Turner but was also granted his own room at Harewood. His large-scale watercolours, ambitious in scale and vision, remain some of the finest depictions of the landscape.

Through this exhibition, discover why Girtin’s bold approach to watercolour paved the way for future artists and immerse yourself in the breathtaking views he captured so beautifully.