Jackson Pollock's Circle, created in 1941, is a seminal work that encapsulates the essence of Abstract Expressionism. This painting, measuring 30 x 32 cm and executed in oil on canvas, is a vibrant example of Pollock's early experimentation with abstract forms.
Composition and Style
The Circle features a central red circle surrounded by a kaleidoscope of colors including yellow, blue, green, and orange. The composition is dynamic, with various animal figures scattered throughout the painting, such as birds and fish, which seem to interact in an abstract manner. This interaction creates a visually engaging experience for the viewer.
Artistic Influences
Pollock's work was influenced by Surrealist artists like André Masson and Max Ernst, who emphasized spontaneous and subconscious creation methods. The Circle reflects this influence with its fluid, expressive brushstrokes and vibrant colors.
Abstract Expressionism
Abstract Expressionism emerged in the United States after World War II and gained mainstream acceptance in the 1950s. Key figures of the New York School, including Pollock, Arshile Gorky, Franz Kline, Mark Rothko, Norman Lewis, Willem de Kooning, Adolph Gottlieb, Clyfford Still, Robert Motherwell, Theodoros Stamos, and Lee Krasner, contributed to this movement. Abstract Expressionism was characterized by its rebellious and idiosyncratic nature, encompassing various artistic styles.
Cultural Significance
The Circle is part of the broader cultural shift in art during the mid-20th century. It reflects the emotional intensity of German Expressionism combined with the radical visual vocabularies of European avant-garde schools like Futurism, Bauhaus, and Synthetic Cubism.
Relevance to Contemporary Art
The influence of Abstract Expressionism can be seen in diverse movements throughout the second half of the 20th century, including Tachisme and Neo-expressionism. The term "abstract expressionism" was first used in Germany in 1919 and later by Alfred Barr in 1929 to describe works by Wassily Kandinsky.
Conclusion
Jackson Pollock's Circle is a significant work that showcases the artist's early exploration of abstract forms. It embodies the principles of Abstract Expressionism, reflecting the spontaneous and subconscious creation methods influenced by Surrealist artists. The painting's dynamic composition and vibrant colors make it a captivating piece that continues to inspire contemporary art movements.