Joseph Wright Of Derby

Style: Romanticism; Neo Classicism;

Place: Irongate

Born: 1734

Death: 1797

Biography:

Early Life and Training

, a prominent English landscape and portrait painter, was born on September 3, 1734, in Derby, United Kingdom. He is renowned for being the first professional painter to express the spirit of the Industrial Revolution. Wright's artistic journey began with studying under Thomas Hudson in London from 1751 to 1753.

Artistic Style and Influences

Wright's work is characterized by his use of chiaroscuro, emphasizing the contrast between light and dark. This technique is evident in his paintings, such as The Three Persons Viewing the Gladiator by Candlelight (1765), A Philosopher Lecturing on the Orrery (1766), and An Experiment on a Bird in the Air Pump (1768). Wright's style was influenced by Alexander Cozens, as seen in his application of Cozens' ideas for composition.

Notable Works and Exhibitions

Wright's notable works include:

• Dovedale by Moonlight, capturing the rural landscape of a narrow valley near Derby.
• Moonlight Landscape, featuring a dramatic, arched bridge over water.
• Rydal Waterfall (1795), showcasing his skill in landscape painting.

Wright frequently contributed to the exhibitions of the Society of Artists and the Royal Academy, becoming an associate in 1781 and a full member in 1784.

Legacy and Later Life

Wright declined the honor of full membership with the Royal Academy due to a perceived slight. He continued to contribute to exhibitions until 1794. Wright passed away on August 29, 1797, at his home in Derby. View more works by Joseph Wright of Derby on Wikioo.org: [https://Wikioo.org/@/Joseph-Wright-Of-Derby](https://Wikioo.org/@/Joseph-Wright-Of-Derby) Explore the Industrial Revolution's influence on art at Schackgalerie, Munich: [https://Wikioo.org/Art.nsf/O/A@D3BFFR](https://Wikioo.org/Art.nsf/O/A@D3BFFR) Discover more about night in paintings (Western art) on Wikipedia: [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Night_in_paintings_(Western_art)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Night_in_paintings_(Western_art))