Why Jackson Pollock’s No. 5 is Labeled as Abstract Expressionist Art

Jackson Pollock’s No. 5, painted in 1948, is often recognized as a seminal work in the realm of abstract expressionist art. But why is it labeled specifically as abstract expressionist rather than abstract art? This article explores the key characteristics that align Pollock’s No. 5 with the principles of the Abstract Expressionism movement.

Emphasis on Emotion and Expression

Abstract Expressionism is an artistic movement that places a strong emphasis on conveying emotions and the artist’s inner feelings. Pollock’s technique, specifically his drip painting method, allows for spontaneous expression and an emotional intensity that goes beyond mere abstraction. This focus on emotion is a hallmark of the Abstract Expressionist movement, which seeks to explore and articulate the artist’s inner psyche in a raw and unfiltered manner.

Gesture and Process

The creation of No. 5 – achieved through Pollock’s distinctive technique of dripping and pouring paint onto the canvas – emphasizes the act of painting itself. This process-oriented approach is central to Abstract Expressionism, where the physical act of creation is as vital as the final product. Through this method, Pollock is able to imbue the work with a sense of spontaneity and raw energy, reflecting the artist’s emotional state during its creation.

Scale and Immersive Experience

The large scale of No. 5 creates an immersive experience for the viewer, drawing them into the artwork. This monumental quality is a hallmark of Abstract Expressionist works, which often seek to engage the viewer on a visceral level. The work’s scale not only enhances the emotional impact but also encourages a deeper, more immersive viewing experience, encouraging the audience to connect with the piece on a personal and psychological level.

Influence of Surrealism

Pollock was influenced by Surrealism, particularly the idea of tapping into the subconscious. His work reflects an exploration of psychological themes, which aligns with the Abstract Expressionist focus on the inner self. The non-representational nature of his paintings allows for an exploration of the unconscious mind, inviting the viewer to contemplate the deeper themes and emotions evoked by the work.

Non-representational vs. Abstract Expressionist

While both abstract and abstract expressionist art are non-representational, Abstract Expressionist works often carry a deeper narrative or emotional context. Pollock’s No. 5 invites personal interpretation and reflects broader existential themes. This additional layer of meaning and emotional depth sets it apart from works that primarily focus on mere abstraction.

A Bit of Artistic History

Abstract Expressionism is a subset of the larger set of abstraction, which includes many kinds of abstraction from Cubism to Color Field painting. This movement emerged after World War II, as artists like Jackson Pollock, Barnett Newman, and Willem de Kooning pushed the boundaries of their paintings in new directions.

It seems that art critics play a significant role in defining and coining terms for art movements. Robert Coates, the art critic for the New Yorker, first coined the term Abstract Expressionism. His term was influential in creating a new genre of art that became recognized and celebrated in the art world. Like many other art movements, Abstract Expressionism was a departure from traditional norms with the intention of creating an emotional effect.

Thus, Coates viewed the work as evoking enough punch and power to create a mood or feeling, classifying it as an expression. The bottom line is that influential art critics can create entirely new genres and terms, effectively shaping the way we understand and appreciate art.