Jackson Pollock

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Jackson Pollock (1912–1956)
The painter of gesture who pulled the canvas out of its frame and laid it on the floor.

Style: Abstract Expressionism – action painting. The painting as a battlefield. He didn’t just paint; he danced with the paint, splashing and pouring it from cans, immersed in the rhythm of improvisation.
Technique: He used sticks, spatulas, palette knives – not brushes. He didn’t touch the canvas – the paint itself shaped the composition, responding to the movements of the artist.
Life: Struggled with alcoholism, a restless spirit. Died in a car accident at the age of 44. His life was filled with tension, but also intense creativity.
For today’s world: Pollock is a symbol of creative freedom. His works teach us to let go of control and embrace chance – an idea that strongly resonates with today’s generative and performative artists.

Biography

Jackson Pollock was an American painter and a major figure in the abstract expressionist movement, known for his innovative drip painting technique. His revolutionary approach involved pouring and splashing paint onto canvases laid on the floor, creating dynamic, all-encompassing compositions. Despite struggles with alcoholism, Pollock's work remains highly influential with iconic pieces like 'Number 17A' and 'Blue Poles'.

Early Life and Education

Born as Paul Jackson Pollock in Cody, Wyoming, he was the youngest of five brothers. He studied at the Art Students League of New York under Thomas Hart Benton and was influenced by Mexican muralists like José Clemente Orozco. He explored Native American art and developed his own unique style.

Development of Drip Technique

Pollock perfected his iconic drip technique in his studio in Springs, New York. His all-over painting approach rejected traditional easel painting, involving the use of unconventional tools and fluid household paints. His work elicited varied critical responses but was praised by figures like Clement Greenberg.

Relationship with Lee Krasner

Pollock married artist Lee Krasner in 1945, who greatly influenced his artistic development and career. Krasner helped him navigate modern art trends and facilitated his rise in the art world. Their home in Springs became a crucial site for his experimentation.

Later Years and Death

Despite deepening alcoholism and a shift away from drip paintings, Pollock remained active until his untimely death in a car crash under the influence in 1956. His legacy was honored posthumously with retrospectives at leading museums.

Nationality

American

Themes

Abstract expressionism, action painting, all-over painting, movement and energy, drip technique, natural forms

Although Pollock's fame grew mainly after his death, he received critical recognition during life and his paintings have fetched record auction prices posthumously.

1943
Breakthrough with Mural

Pollock's large mural for Peggy Guggenheim's townhouse marked his first major recognition by critics and collectors.
1949
Life Magazine Feature

A four-page spread hailed him as a leading American painter contributing to his rising fame.
1950
Major Exhibitions

His drip paintings gained wide attention and the term 'drip painting' became associated with him.
1998-1999
MoMA and Tate Exhibitions

Large-scale retrospective exhibitions solidified Pollock's position in modern art history.