Jackson Pollock, American painter (d. 1956)

Paul Jackson Pollock (January 28, 1912 – August 11, 1956) stands as one of the most significant and revolutionary figures in 20th-century American art. As a leading proponent of the Abstract Expressionist movement, particularly the New York School, his groundbreaking approach to painting fundamentally redefined artistic conventions and captivated audiences worldwide.

Pollock's radical shift from traditional easel painting involved laying his canvases on the floor, allowing him to circumnavigate the work and engage with it from all perspectives. It was within this innovative environment that he pioneered his renowned "drip technique." Instead of conventional brushes, Pollock utilized sticks, hardened brushes, and even basting syringes to pour, splash, and drip liquid household paints directly onto the horizontal surface. This method transformed the act of painting into a dynamic performance, capturing raw energy and spontaneous movement.

The Essence of Action Painting and All-Over Composition

This immersive process quickly became known as "action painting," a term coined by art critic Harold Rosenberg in 1952. It emphasized the artist's physical engagement and the very act of creation as integral to the artwork itself, rather than solely focusing on the finished product. Pollock's movements, often described as a frenetic dance around the canvas, directly translated into the intricate webs of paint, making each stroke a testament to his emotional and physical state. Complementing this, his work also championed "all-over painting," a compositional approach where the entire canvas receives uniform treatment, eliminating traditional focal points or hierarchical arrangements. This ensured that no single area dominated the viewer's attention, encouraging an expansive visual experience.

Pollock's extreme form of abstraction sparked considerable debate within the art world. While influential critics like Clement Greenberg lauded the immediacy and authenticity of his creations, seeing them as a pure expression of the subconscious, others derided what they perceived as chaotic or random effects. This polarized reception underscored the radical nature of his art, challenging established notions of beauty, technique, and artistic intention.

Despite the initial controversy, Pollock's work has achieved monumental recognition and value. In 2016, his masterpiece titled "Number 17A," created in 1948, was reportedly sold for an astounding US$200 million in a private transaction. This significant sale, arranged through Sotheby's, positioned it among the most expensive paintings ever acquired, underscoring his enduring legacy and profound impact on the global art market.

A Life Marked by Struggle and Enduring Influence

Beyond his revolutionary artistic contributions, Pollock's life was characterized by a complex and often turbulent personal journey. Described as a reclusive yet volatile personality, he grappled intensely with chronic alcoholism throughout most of his adult life. This struggle profoundly impacted his relationships and mental well-being, often fueling the myth of the tortured genius.

In 1945, Pollock married fellow Abstract Expressionist artist Lee Krasner. Their relationship, though complex, proved to be a pivotal influence on his career and, crucially, on the preservation of his artistic legacy. Krasner not only provided a measure of stability but also actively promoted his work and ensured its recognition, especially after his untimely death. Her unwavering dedication was instrumental in solidifying his place in art history.

Tragically, Paul Jackson Pollock's life was cut short at the age of 44. On August 11, 1956, he died in an alcohol-related single-car accident while driving in Springs, New York. The accident also claimed the life of Edith Metzger, while another passenger, Ruth Kligman, survived. His premature demise cast a somber shadow over the art world, yet paradoxically, it further cemented his legend as a quintessential American artist whose life was as intense and uncompromising as his art.

The art world was quick to acknowledge his profound impact. Just four months after his death, in December 1956, the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City honored Pollock with a memorial retrospective exhibition, a testament to his immediate and recognized significance. MoMA continued to champion his work, hosting a larger, more comprehensive exhibition in 1967. Decades later, his sustained global relevance was highlighted by major large-scale retrospective exhibitions in 1998 and 1999 at both MoMA and The Tate in London, solidifying his permanent stature as an icon of modern art and an enduring source of inspiration for generations of artists.

Frequently Asked Questions About Jackson Pollock

Who was Jackson Pollock?
Jackson Pollock was a highly influential American painter, born in 1912, who became a leading figure in the Abstract Expressionist movement, particularly celebrated for his revolutionary "drip technique."
What is Jackson Pollock's "drip technique"?
The "drip technique" is a method where Pollock would pour, splash, and drip liquid household paint onto a canvas laid horizontally on the floor, allowing him to work around and within the painting from all angles without a traditional easel or brushwork.
What is "action painting"?
Action painting, a term associated with Pollock's work, emphasizes the physical act of painting itself – the artist's movements, energy, and spontaneous gestures – as a crucial element of the artwork, making the process as important as the final product.
How much did "Number 17A" by Jackson Pollock sell for?
In 2016, Jackson Pollock's painting "Number 17A" was reportedly sold for US$200 million in a private transaction, making it one of the most expensive paintings ever sold.
How did Jackson Pollock die?
Jackson Pollock died at the age of 44 in an alcohol-related single-car accident on August 11, 1956, while driving in Springs, New York.
What was Lee Krasner's role in Jackson Pollock's life and legacy?
Lee Krasner was a fellow Abstract Expressionist artist and Pollock's wife. She played a significant role in providing stability in his life, managing his career, and, most crucially, preserving and promoting his artistic legacy after his death.