The Life and Works of Joseph Wright, A.R.A., commonly called "Wright of Derby"

This lively volume brings the once‑celebrated painter Joseph Wright of Derby back into view, drawing on a wealth of contemporary research and a passionate local perspective. Compiled by a dedicated scholar and introduced with a thoughtful preface, the book blends narrative biography with vivid reproductions of Wright’s most famous works. Readers will find detailed etchings and woodcuts that illustrate the artist’s range, from dramatic nocturnal scenes to refined portraiture.

The author guides the listener through Wright’s distinctive technique, noting his precise brushwork, clear enamel‑like colours, and a particular affection for a nuanced green that runs through many of his canvases. By comparing his approach to that of Reynolds, Gainsborough and Dutch masters, the text reveals how Wright balanced tradition with his own naturalist sensibility. Along the way, the book highlights iconic pieces such as “The Air Pump” and “The Orrery,” showing why they remain beloved examples of 18th‑century British art.