Jackson Pollock: Pioneer of Abstract Expressionism
Jackson Pollock (1912-1956) was a revolutionary American painter and a major figure in the abstract expressionist movement. Known for his unique "drip painting" technique, Pollock redefined the boundaries of modern art.
Early Life and Career
Background
Born in Cody, Wyoming in 1912, Pollock grew up in Arizona and California. He studied at the Art Students League in New York under Thomas Hart Benton, initially working in a more traditional style before developing his signature approach.
Artistic Development
In the late 1940s, Pollock pioneered his revolutionary drip technique, abandoning easels to pour and fling paint onto canvases laid on the floor. This method emphasized the physical act of painting itself.
Major Works and Style
Key Paintings
Pollock's most significant works include:
| Year | Painting | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| 1943 | Mural | First major commissioned work |
| 1947 | Full Fathom Five | Early drip painting example |
| 1950 | Autumn Rhythm | Monumental drip composition |
| 1953 | Greyed Rainbow | Late abstract masterpiece |
Later Years and Legacy
Pollock's career was cut short by his death in a car accident in 1956. His innovative techniques and radical approach to painting made him one of the most influential American artists of the 20th century, with his works continuing to command record prices at auction.
