1. Abstract Expressionism: Both Emotional and Formal
This movement began in New York after World War II - shows a desire to hold onto humanity during an insane time.
Rooted in the styles of Kandinsky and Gorky from Europe.
It is both abstract / formal (without recognizable subject matter) and expressive / emotional.
a.k.a “Action Painting” – emphasizes energy, action, kineticism (i.e. kinetic energy).
THEORY: The image is the result of creative process (NOT a preconceived idea)
New approaches / methods were used to create this effect.
Major debate at this time: what is art?

2. Jackson Pollock and his drip method…

3. Jackson Pollock’s earlier abstract work…

4. Slide #37:
Jackson Pollock’s mature style – called “action painting”…

5. Slide #38:
Willem de Kooning, one of Pollock’s famous contemporaries / rivals…
Loosely based figures

6. Slide #39:
Franz Kline
Inspired by his own sketches blown up with a projector