Joshua Reynolds
Sir Joshua Reynolds was an English painter who specialised in portraits. Art critic John Russell called him one of the major European painters of the 18th century. He promoted the "Grand Style" in painting, which depended on idealisation of the imperfect. He was a founder and first president of the Royal Academy of Arts and was knighted by George III in 1769.
Fifteen Discourses
Explore the mind of a master as he guides aspiring artists toward greatness, urging them to embrace classic ideals and shun empty technique.
By Joshua Reynolds
Seven Discourses on Art
Enter the world of an 18th-century master, where the pursuit of artistic excellence intertwined with disciplined study and the timeless ideals of beauty.
By Joshua Reynolds
Sir Joshua Reynolds' Discourses Edited, with an Introduction, by Helen Zimmern
Explore a world where aspiring artists are encouraged to follow strict rules and imitate masters to achieve greatness in painting, guided by the vision of a new academy.
By Joshua Reynolds