Death of an Artist
Episode 6: A Phoenix From the Ashes
Jun 21, 2024
Lee Krasner, an acclaimed artist and executor of Jackson Pollock's estate, shares her inspiring journey through grief and creativity. She discusses negotiating Pollock's legacy and transforming the financial landscape of American abstract art. Krasner reflects on her emotional healing process and how it fueled her vibrant late-night paintings. Additionally, she considers the challenges of being a female artist and the significance of her solo exhibition at the Museum of Modern Art, encapsulating her legacy as a pioneering figure in abstraction.
24:57
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Quick takeaways
- Lee Krasner's strategic price increase for Pollock's artwork transformed the market value of American abstract art and ensured her financial security.
- Through her late-night painting sessions during grief, Krasner channeled her emotional turmoil into vibrant artworks, known as her 'night journeys.'
Deep dives
Revolutionizing Art Sales
Lee Krasner, after inheriting Jackson Pollock's estate, faced the challenge of negotiating the sale of his artwork. She met with Sidney Janis, Pollock's art dealer, who initially lined up a sale for one of Pollock's drip paintings, 'Autumn Rhythm,' at the price of $8,000. Understanding the potential to change the market, Lee abruptly raised the price to $30,000, recognizing that a successful high sale would enhance the value of all Pollock's works. This audacious move ultimately led to the painting being sold to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, establishing a new benchmark for American abstract art sales and securing Lee's financial stability.
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