Episode 3: The Collector
Digest
This episode of Death of an Artist delves into the complex relationship between Lee Krasner and Jackson Pollock, highlighting their shared passion for art and the challenges they faced. The episode begins with Pollock's hospitalization due to his severe alcoholism, showcasing Lee's unwavering support and dedication to him. It then takes us back to the early days of their relationship, emphasizing their mutual respect for each other's artistic talents and the influence they had on each other's styles. The episode culminates in Lee's determined efforts to secure Peggy Guggenheim's attention for Jackson's work, recognizing the potential impact this could have on his career and their financial stability. The episode ends with Peggy's arrival at Jackson's studio, setting the stage for a pivotal moment in their lives.
Outlines
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Pollock's Hospitalization
This Chapter begins with Jackson Pollock's hospitalization at Bellevue Hospital due to his severe alcoholism. Lee Krasner, his partner, is shocked by his condition and tries to help him recover. The episode highlights the challenges they faced with Pollock's drinking and the impact it had on their lives.
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The Early Days of Krasner and Pollock's Relationship
This Chapter explores the early days of Lee Krasner and Jackson Pollock's relationship, focusing on their artistic bond and mutual respect for each other's work. The episode describes their unique courtship, which revolved around art and their shared passion for the Paris School of Painting. It also highlights the influence they had on each other's styles, particularly Lee's introduction of Matisse's vibrant colors to Pollock's palette.
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Lee's Determination to Promote Pollock's Work
This Chapter focuses on Lee Krasner's determination to promote Jackson Pollock's work and secure financial stability for them. The episode highlights the challenges they faced, including Pollock's alcoholism, their lack of money, and the limited market for their type of art. Lee recognizes the potential impact of Peggy Guggenheim's patronage and sets out to convince her of Jackson's talent.
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Peggy Guggenheim: The Art Collector
This Chapter introduces Peggy Guggenheim, a prominent art collector, and her unconventional gallery, Art of this Century. The episode describes Peggy's unique personality, her passion for modern art, and her desire to support emerging American artists. It also highlights the significance of her gallery as a platform for showcasing new and experimental art.
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Peggy's Show and Lee's Mission
This Chapter focuses on Peggy Guggenheim's group show featuring New York artists, including Jackson Pollock. The episode highlights Lee Krasner's efforts to promote Pollock's work and secure a solo show for him. It also emphasizes Lee's decision to not submit her own work, demonstrating her unwavering support for Jackson's career.
Keywords
Lee Krasner
Lee Krasner (1908-1984) was an American abstract expressionist painter. She was a prominent figure in the New York School art movement and is known for her bold and energetic paintings. She was also the wife of Jackson Pollock, and she played a significant role in promoting his career.
Jackson Pollock
Jackson Pollock (1912-1956) was an American abstract expressionist painter. He is known for his unique drip painting technique, which involved pouring and splattering paint onto canvases. Pollock's work is characterized by its spontaneity, dynamism, and abstract forms. He is considered one of the most influential artists of the 20th century.
Peggy Guggenheim
Peggy Guggenheim (1898-1979) was an American art collector, patron, and gallery owner. She was a prominent figure in the art world, known for her unconventional taste and her support of avant-garde artists. She amassed a significant collection of modern art, including works by Picasso, Duchamp, and Kandinsky. She also founded the Art of this Century gallery in New York, which became a hub for experimental art.
Abstract Expressionism
Abstract Expressionism is an art movement that emerged in the United States in the 1940s. It is characterized by its emphasis on abstract forms, spontaneous gestures, and emotional expression. Key figures in the movement include Jackson Pollock, Willem de Kooning, and Mark Rothko. Abstract Expressionism had a profound impact on the development of modern art and continues to influence artists today.
New York School
The New York School is a term used to describe a group of artists who were active in New York City in the mid-20th century. The group included abstract expressionists, surrealists, and other avant-garde artists. They were united by their shared interest in experimentation, innovation, and the exploration of new forms of artistic expression.
Art of this Century
Art of this Century was a gallery founded by Peggy Guggenheim in New York City in 1942. It was known for its unconventional design and its focus on avant-garde art. The gallery showcased works by prominent artists such as Picasso, Duchamp, and Kandinsky, as well as emerging American artists. Art of this Century played a significant role in promoting modern art in the United States.
Bellevue Hospital
Bellevue Hospital is a public hospital located in New York City. It is one of the oldest and largest hospitals in the United States. Bellevue has a long history of serving the city's most vulnerable populations, including those with mental health issues and substance abuse problems. The hospital has been featured in numerous books, films, and television shows.
Paris School of Painting
The Paris School of Painting refers to a group of artists who were active in Paris in the early 20th century. The group included prominent figures such as Picasso, Matisse, and Braque. They were known for their innovative approaches to painting, including cubism, fauvism, and expressionism. The Paris School had a profound impact on the development of modern art and continues to influence artists today.
Matisse
Henri Matisse (1869-1954) was a French painter, sculptor, and printmaker. He was a leading figure in the Fauvist movement and is known for his use of bold colors, simplified forms, and expressive brushstrokes. Matisse's work is characterized by its vibrancy, sensuality, and decorative qualities. He is considered one of the most important artists of the 20th century.
Q&A
What challenges did Lee Krasner and Jackson Pollock face in their relationship?
Lee and Jackson faced numerous challenges, including Pollock's severe alcoholism, their lack of financial stability, and the limited market for their type of art. Pollock's drinking often led to difficult situations, requiring Lee's constant support and care. Their financial struggles were exacerbated by the lack of recognition for their work, making it difficult to make ends meet.
How did Lee Krasner influence Jackson Pollock's artistic style?
Lee introduced Pollock to the vibrant colors of Matisse, which significantly impacted his palette. She also encouraged him to move away from traditional symbolism and embrace a more abstract approach to painting. Lee's influence helped Pollock develop his unique style and achieve greater artistic freedom.
Why was Peggy Guggenheim's patronage so important to Jackson Pollock?
Peggy Guggenheim was a prominent art collector with the power to elevate artists' careers and provide them with financial stability. If she recognized Pollock's talent and decided to represent him, it would have been a game-changer for him, potentially leading to solo shows, sales, and financial security.
What was Peggy Guggenheim's gallery, Art of this Century, like?
Art of this Century was an unconventional gallery with a tube-shaped room, curved walls, a turquoise floor, and sails hanging from the ceiling. It was a radical departure from traditional white-walled galleries and reflected Peggy's unique taste and desire to showcase experimental art.
What was Lee Krasner's mission in promoting Jackson Pollock's work?
Lee was determined to get Peggy Guggenheim's attention for Jackson's work, believing that it could change their lives. She recognized the potential impact of Peggy's patronage and was willing to put her own career on hold to support Jackson's success.
Show Notes
1942. Midtown. Peggy Guggenheim arrives, opens a gallery and gives hungry artists hope.
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