What inspired the atmospheric, abstract paintings of J.M.W. Turner?

Joseph Mallord William Turner, commonly known as J.M.W. Turner, was a 19th-century English artist who is considered one of the greatest landscape painters of all time. His atmospheric and abstract paintings were ahead of their time and had a profound influence on the art world.

Turner was inspired by nature and his travels to various parts of Europe. He was particularly fascinated by the effects of light and atmospheric conditions on landscapes and seascapes. His early works were more realistic, but as he matured as an artist, he began to experiment with light and color to create mood and emotion in his paintings.

One of the major events that influenced Turner's work was the eruption of Mount Tambora in Indonesia in 1815. The volcanic ash caused unusual atmospheric conditions around the world, resulting in spectacular sunsets and sunrises. Turner was fascinated by these unusual colors and atmospheric effects, which he captured in his paintings.

Turner was also influenced by the Romantic movement, which emphasized emotion, imagination, and individualism. He saw himself as an artist who could evoke emotions and moods in his viewers through his paintings.