Jackson Pollock is most well known for his drip style, or splatter, paintings which makes him one of the most well known Abstract Impressionists. During this phase, he would attach canvases to his studio floor and use sticks, trowels, and/or knives to splatter and throw the paint – sometimes he would even pour it directly from the paint can. This was different than his contemporaries, and while the most well known, is only a fraction of his work.
Pollock was a staple in the American art scene of New York in the 40s. His relationship with Lee Krasner, support of art collector, Peggy Guggenheim, and a 4 page feature in LIFE magazine helped catapult him to fame. As many artists do, Pollock wrestled with his inner demons, manifesting in alcoholism and infidelity. His choices ultimately cost him his life in a single car accident in 1956.
In 2000, the biographical film, Pollock, starred Ed Harris and presented the artist and those in his life in a bold and unapologetic portrayal. Below is the trailer and an excerpt called ‘Inspiration’ – check them both out – it’s a great film!!
In Dallas, we are lucky to have the DMA – Dallas Museum of Art! We were thrilled to attend a Jackson Pollock exhibit, and below were some of my favorites.
Below is a picture of the floor in Pollock’s studio. Some may see a ‘mess’, but I see masterpieces in the making and a flood of artistic energy.
Studio floor used by Jackson Pollock at the Pollock-Krasner House and Study Center in Springs, New York. The studio is in an old barn behind the house. Pollock had the building moved, put a wood floor down and used it as his primary painting surface from 1946 until his death in 1956. When he renovated in 1953, he put down a masonite covering. Krasner started to use the room in 1957. Upon her death in 1984, ownership was transferred to Stony Brook University, who removed the covering, discovered the old surface, and had it restored in 1987-8.
https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=44204609
A few key paintings by Jackson Pollock
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