Contains resolutions for the year. Much of the journal concerns the progress of his practice in painting, notes of books read, visits and social events, journies to Mortlake. Each week has a space for a "weekly review" in which Ward criticizes his work and resolved to do better. One early entry agonises over how long to work on a painting, contrasting the approach of
Cregan on one pole and
Briggs on the other. [October 1821] Visits to Northcote and
Constable, whose professional attitude is a great inspiration. [December] Social engagements in London and attendance at the Schools of the Royal Academy under
Fuseli. Sits for his bust by
Bonomi. [January 1822] Views the British Gallery exhibition with
Leslie, impressed by the work of
E. Landseer. [Feburary] Invited by
Thomas Lawrence to see his portrait of the
Pope before it goes to Rome. Discusses Landseer's technique. Conversazione at Grays Inn Coffee House. Works on a portrait of Mr. Gibson. Goes to see
Cosway's prints. [March] Conversation with Northcote (refers to "F p.2").
Flaxman lectures at the R.A, draws from a figure set by
Wilkie. Thoughts on the close of the R.A. Schools for the season. [April] Readying his picture of Gibson for the R.A. exhibition. Sends his portrait of Mr. Richardson to Yorkshire. An evening at
W. Westall's. Northcote says
Reynolds shared his love of panoramas. [May] Varnishes his picture at the R.A. Goes to
Martin's exhibition, "makes my head giddy". Travels to Ditton. Visits
Lord Stafford's gallery to study
Titian. [June] Spends time with
Jackson, where he meets
Chantrey. [July] Visits the
James Ward exhibition in Newman St. [August] Studies at the RA, visitor
Baily. The index has been compleated solely with an eye on comments concerning painting.