Jackson Pollock's Birthday

I had to Google something this morning and saw that the ever-changing illustration on the home page was a painting by this enigmatic master. Pollock always elicits a reaction, no matter who looks at his work. Everyone has something to say and the reactions are over an enormous range of opinions from the indifferent to outraged to praise for his genius. No one seems to ignore Jackson Pollock.

I have to say that I was just a curious observer until I saw his painting, Autumn Rhythm (Number 30) at The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. The painting is a very large canvas and I sat down on a small bench and just stared at the work of art. For some reason, I continued to do so for more than forty five minutes. I am not sure why but I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. I would include a picture but frankly it would not do any good because the size of the painting is what draws you in on a personal level. I had previously enjoyed the work of other artists that painted in genre of Abstract Expressionism and became interested in learning more about Pollock. I read a couple of books and watched a documentary and the feature length film with Ed Harris. He was a tortured soul of sorts and not always the best example of humanity but the man's story is fascinating. I am a fan of his work and like every other artist I enjoy I do NOT like everything single thing in his portfolio.

One of my favorite works by Pollock is, Painting (Silver over Black, White, Yellow and Red) and is on display at Centre Pompidou in Paris. A couple of years ago, my wife and I had the privilege of spending a couple of weeks in Paris and I was able to see that painting and two others by Pollock. We always enjoy traveling and museums in particular and she is extremely tolerant of my curious nature. Two other paintings are also on display, Number 26A, Black and White and The Deep (one of his last). I wanted to spend time looking at two of the works that were displayed side by side but in this case there was no bench so I just laid on the floor with my hands behind my head and looked. My wife took a picture and we still call it "Hanging out with Jackson". This is in no way any disrespect and I was just enjoying myself. Next time I may have to take one of those small folding stools in our daypack. For your amusement, click on this link for the opportunity to paint your own Pollock! You are guaranteed to have a good time!

Art is a subject about which all people have an opinion. Whether your tastes are for Old Masters, Primitive, Realism, Cubism or any other ism, check out what there is to see in your community. Art appreciation and support enriches our society in countless ways and I think that local art museums and artists that are in my town and yours are worth noting and would make a great Localism Post!