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Jackson Pollock, Number 1, 1950 (Lavender Mist), 1950 oil, enamel, and aluminum on canvas, National Gallery of Art, Washington, Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund

Number 1, 1950 (Lavender Mist), Pollock (ASL)

Pollock’s drip painting technique was instrumental in the development of action painting, one method of the abstract expressionist style. Abstract expressionist painters sought to create works that evoked pure emotion from the viewer. In this piece, splashing lines, puddles, and drips create multiple layers that suggest energy and depth. The result seems spontaneous yet controlled, intuitive yet thoughtfully considered.

09/30/16