Extensive journeys in Britain and continental Europe provided an inexhaustible source of inspiration for the visionary colour composi-tions of J. M. William Turner. In Switzerland he experienced the beauty and menace of the Alps, and by the sea the colourful harmonies of the diffuse light. The publication presents an incomparably original artist on his route to autonomy in art.

The temporary peace on the continent from 1802 enabled the London artist to extend his search for motifs to Central Europe. In particular he travelled through the mountain world of Switzerland, constantly sketching his impressions. Back in his studio, he developed the unique imagery of his sublime landscape paintings. Through pictures which tell of the forces of nature of the sea and of the Swiss mountain landscapes, the authors examine the change in the portrayal of the "sublime", the subject of weather phenomena and Turner's role as the forerunner of Modernism, while Cees Nooteboom reflects on Turner and travel.