The Art of Splatter: Unveiling Pioneers of the Drip Painting Movement

The technique of splattering paint onto large canvases gained immense popularity in the mid-20th century, notably during the 1960s and 1970s. This essay delves into the careers and contributions of three notable artists who were pivotal in this movement: Jackson Pollock, Kevin 'Pro' Hart, and Rolf Harris. Each artist brought unique approaches to this unconventional form of expression, revolutionizing the art world of their time.

Introduction to Splatter Painting

The splatter painting movement, or what is more accurately identified with the drip painting technique, emerged in the mid-20th century as a radical departure from traditional methods of painting. Artists like Jackson Pollock, Kevin 'Pro' Hart, and Rolf Harris challenged conventional norms by abandoning brushes and instead applying paint through various unconventional means, primarily by splattering and dripping paint onto canvas.

Exploring the Legacy of Jackson Pollock

Icon of the Abstract Expressionism Movement
Born in 1912, Jackson Pollock became a key figure in the Abstract Expressionist movement during the 1940s and 1950s. Throughout the decades of the 1960s and 1970s, his works continued to influence subsequent generations of artists.

Pollock's technique involved pouring and splattering paint from pitchers onto vast canvases laid on the floor. This method created a chaotic yet harmonious balance, capturing the energy and spontaneity of the artist's experience. These works, such as his famous The She-Wolf (1943) and Convergence (1952), are identified by their bailers of paint, which form a mesmerizing tapestry of color and form.

Diving into the Career of Kevin 'Pro' Hart

A Unique Australian Voice
Despite being less recognized internationally, Kevin 'Pro' Hart stands out as a significant contributor to the splatter painting movement, particularly within the Australian art scene. Born in 1952, Hart's innovative approach to drip and splatter techniques began in the late 1960s and continued into the 1970s.

His works often featured a bold and vibrant use of color, contrasting with the more subdued palette favored by many of his contemporaries. Hart's techniques included dripping paint in intricate patterns and creating dramatic, almost violent splashes that capture the spirit of the era.

Notable Contributions of Rolf Harris

Controversy and Legacy
While Rolf Harris is best known for his child sex abuse convictions in 2015, his early contributions to the art world cannot be ignored. Harris's work in the 1960s and 1970s, particularly his drip and splatter paintings, broke new ground in the art of painting.

Known for his energetic and spontaneous approach, Harris often used a variety of tools, such as sticks, pins, and other objects, to apply paint in a manner that replicated the chaos and creativity of the process. His series of paintings, like Cyber Street and Big Hat, showcase the unpredictability of his technique and the raw emotion it conveyed.

The Impact and Legacy of the Drip Painting Movement

The impact of the splatter and drip painting movement extended far beyond the canvas. These techniques democratized the act of painting, allowing artists to express their emotions and experiences through a highly visceral and unstructured form. The artists mentioned above—Jackson Pollock, Kevin 'Pro' Hart, and Rolf Harris—played pivotal roles in this evolution of artistic expression.

Although Jackson Pollock's influence is more widely recognized in the art world, the contributions of Kevin 'Pro' Hart and Rolf Harris critically highlight the diverse and dynamic nature of this period's art. Their work continues to be studied and appreciated, offering valuable insights into the cultural and social contexts of the 1960s and 1970s.

Conclusion

The splatter painting movement of the 1960s and 1970s represented a radical shift in artistic expression, challenging traditional methods and pushing the boundaries of what was considered acceptable in the art world. Jackson Pollock, Kevin 'Pro' Hart, and Rolf Harris were at the forefront of this movement, each contributing their unique visions to shape the future of art. Their work continues to inspire artists and viewers alike, offering a window into the artistic spirit of the era.