Jackson Pollock

Date of Birth: January 28, 1912

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Date of Death: August 11, 1956

Biography

Paul Jackson Pollock, often referred to as Jackson Pollock, was an influential American painter and a major figure in the abstract expressionist movement. Born on January 28, 1912, in Cody, Wyoming, Pollock grew up in Arizona and California. He studied at the Art Students League in New York City under Thomas Hart Benton, who instilled in him a love for large-scale murals and a dynamic approach to painting. Pollock’s most famous works were created in the “drip period” between 1947 and 1950. He developed a unique style of dripping or pouring paint onto a horizontal surface, a technique that allowed him to view and apply paint from all angles. This method broke away from traditional painting techniques and positioned Pollock as a pioneer in the abstract expressionist movement. His career was marked by both critical acclaim and personal struggles, including battles with alcoholism. Pollock’s life was tragically cut short when he died in a car accident on August 11, 1956, in Springs, New York, at the age of 44. Despite his relatively short career, Pollock’s work has left an enduring impact on the world of modern art.

5 Interesting Facts about Jackson Pollock

1. Pollock was nicknamed “Jack the Dripper” due to his unique painting style.

2. His work “No. 5, 1948” was sold for a record $140 million in a private sale in 2006.

3. Pollock struggled with alcoholism throughout his life, which influenced both his personal life and his art.

4. He was married to fellow artist Lee Krasner, who played a significant role in promoting his work and legacy.

5. Pollock’s technique of pouring and dripping paint is often seen as a precursor to performance art.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Jackson Pollock

1. “Every good painter paints what he is.”

2. “The modern artist is working with space and time, and expressing his feelings rather than illustrating.”

3. “I have no fear of making changes, destroying the image, etc., because the painting has a life of its own.”

4. “The painting has a life of its own. I try to let it come through.”

5. “Energy made visible.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

The highest net worth Jackson Pollock achieved is difficult to determine precisely due to the fluctuating value of his works. However, his painting “No. 5, 1948” was sold for approximately $140 million in 2006, making him one of the most highly valued artists in history.