Jackson Pollock

Today in 1956 we lost Jackson Pollock. Jackson Pollock at work on Autumn Rhythm, No. 30, 1950. Photo by Hans Namuth. © 1991 Hans Namuth Estate. Collection of the Center for Creative Photography. University of Arizona. Jackson Pollock remains today one of the most controversial artists ever. He is iconic in nature. When a seemingly random array of colors or objects is seen, it is termed a “Jackson Pollock.” It is a phenomenon close to the iconic nature of any blowing skirt being a “Marilyn Moment.” His studio floor was designated A National Historic Landmark in 1994 His stunning paintings have become the center of the storm: Art or Accident? I don’t know anything about art but I know what I like. I see where he cleaned up his brushes; where’s the painting? That guy was either drunk or crazy. If I made a mess like that, I’d have to clean it up. You call that art? Heck, I could have painted that! Looks like my garage floor. and so on... The movie “Pollock” is highly recommended. Jackson Pollock has been a lifelong fascination for actor Ed Harris. His depiction of Pollock in the movie is heartfelt and real. The DVD includes a movie short, a special feature made back in the early fifties showing Pollock himself working. You can see the rhythm, the concentration and focus of the artist. Watching Pollock work, one might learn that his work was much more deliberate and much less accidental. You can see a piece of it here. Oh Glorious Leader examined Pollock and Harris a while back in Learning Curve On The Ecliptic. It is an interesting comparison.

Can anyone identify this painting? Is it Francois Schuiten? Looks like his work but can someone confirm it?? Click for larger version. Yes, I refuse to use Kleenex until THIS stops.