As the Turner's Oxford exhibition opens at the Ashmolean, Patrick Fleming reflects on an extraordinary collection

A remarkable art exhibition that celebrates the stunning architecture and landscape of Oxford opens at the city's Ashmolean Museum tonight (June 20).

Turner's Oxford brings together more than 70 priceless works for a unique exhibition charting the great man's lifelong affair with the city.

The exhibition, which will run until September 2, contains many famous works from private and public collections and entrance is free.

It also looks set to spark a fierce new debate on the controversial changes taking place within the city centre. Colin Harrison, assistant keeper in the Department of Western Art, said the exhibition would give people a unique opportunity to see Oxford through the eyes of one of the world's greatest artists.

Central to the collection is a magnificent oil painting of the High Street as it was in December 1809.

The vista stands in marked contrast to the scene today and will surely spark a debate about the future of Oxford.

"We must all be conscious that we are losing Oxford. There is a grave danger that what we associate with Oxford is fast disappearing," said Mr Harrison.

"I hope the views of the High Street, illustrating what a great place it was for strolling, will make people think about the city and its future."

Before the industrial revolution, Oxford was one of the largest cities in England outside London. A survey of 1781 lists it fourth after Manchester, Liverpool and Bristol. In those days the city's prosperity was derived from two sources the University and the fertile agricultural land of the Thames Valley.

The real reasons why Turner spent so much time in the city remain unclear, but it is generally regarded that some of his most famous works were painted in Oxford.

Between 1787 and 1804 Turner painted more than 30 finished watercolours of Oxford. Starting as a 12-year-old with a famous study of Folly Bridge, these works capture Oxford through the eyes of a young man exploring his talent.

Many opinion-formers have dismissed the first 25 years of Turner's life, but Mr Harrison points out that by the age of 25 Turner had been exhibiting at the Royal Academy for ten years. By then he was a fully mature artist, capable of virtuoso technical feats and free to accept or reject commissions as he wished.

"Turner was in love with Oxford. He wandered through the city, sketchbook in hand. You can see and feel the great excitement he felt.

"This exhibition is a wonderful opportunity for people to see Oxford through his eyes at a time when it was one of the most beautiful cities." said Mr Harrison.

To mark the importance of the exhibition the Ashmolean has planned a number of events.

These include a study day, lectures and a seminar, and a drawing and painting workshop. During the summer, the Ashmolean will also open its doors late every Thursday evening throughout June, July and August, staying open until 8pm.

Activities for summer fun include live jazz in the forecourt, a promenade concert, children's storytelling with acclaimed author Michael Rosen, and a free glass of wine with meals.