Jackson Pollock: A Collection Survey, 1934–1954
This exhibition covers Jackson Pollock’s work from the 1930s until his 1956 death at the age of 44. The works are taken from the Museum of Modern Art’s unparalleled collection of Jackson Pollock’s works. 50 works representing every phase of the artist’s career and the wide range of materials and techniques that he employed are on show in the exhibition.
Jackson Pollock (American, 1912-1956). One: Number 31, 1950. 1950. Oil and enamel paint on canvas, 8′ 10″ x 17′ 5 5/8″ (269.5 x 530.8 cm). The Museum of Modern Art, New York. Sidney and Harriet Janis Collection Fund (by exchange), 1968. © 2015 Pollock-Krasner Foundation / Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York
Over the course of two decades, Pollock’s work progressed from mythical, primal figures and scenes; to imagery that combines elements of representation and abstraction; to the radical “drip” paintings that mark the climax of his career. With these culminating works, which envelop the viewer through their monumental scale and all over markings, Pollock emerged at the forefront of the post-World War II movement known as Abstract Expressionism. His innovations helped make this the first American art movement to wield international influence. They had an explosive effect on the traditions of painting and opened up new avenues for sculpture and performance art as well.
Jackson Pollock (American, 1912-1956). The She-Wolf. 1943. Oil, gouache, and plaster on canvas, 41 7/8 x 67″ (106.4 x 170.2 cm). The Museum of Modern Art, New York. Purchase, 1944 © 2015 Pollock-Krasner Foundation / Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York
In addition to One: Number 31, 1950 (1950)—arguably Pollock’s greatest masterpiece and one of his largest canvases—the exhibition also features drawings and exceedingly rare and little-known engravings, lithographs, and screenprints, highlighting an underappreciated side of one of the most important and influential American artists of the 20th century. Bringing these works together underscores the relentless search for new expressive means and the emphasis on experimentation and process that were at the heart of Pollock’s creativity.
Now until Sunday, May 1
The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) New York
Opening Hours
Daily 10:30 – 17:30, Friday 10:30 – 20:00
