
Death of an Artist
You’ve heard of Jackson Pollock but you may have never heard of Lee Krasner. Krasner was an artist, Pollock’s wife, and the woman who made him famous. She also changed everything about the landscape of modern art. This is a story about love, power, alcoholism and an ill-timed death. Hosted by curator, author, and broadcaster Katy Hessel, this 6-episode series, offers an inside look into two of the greatest artists of the 20th century, and how their vision impacts ours.
And listen back to season one, where host Helen Molesworth revisits the artist Ana Mendieta’s death and the trial that followed– interrogating both the silence and the protest that have accompanied her story ever since.
Death of an Artist Season 1 is a co-production between Pushkin Industries, Somethin’ Else, and Sony Music Entertainment.
Death of an Artist Season 2 is a co-production between Pushkin Industries and Samizdat Audio.
Latest episodes

7 snips
Aug 23, 2024 • 16min
Bonus: The Women on the Scene with Audrey Flack
Audrey Flack, an influential artist, musician, and writer, shares vivid tales from the vibrant mid-20th-century New York City art scene. She reflects on the challenges faced by women artists and their remarkable resilience. The conversation features personal anecdotes and tributes, including a heartfelt song about Jackson Pollock. Flack's legacy is celebrated as listeners dive into the captivating lives of renowned women artists, showcasing their innovative contributions and transformative journeys in a predominantly male-dominated environment.

9 snips
Jun 28, 2024 • 26min
Bonus: Krasner's Way with Eleanor Nairne
Eleanor Nairne, the Keith L. and Catherine Sacks Curator at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, dives deep into the artistic legacy of Lee Krasner. She explores Krasner's evolution and groundbreaking work over six decades, revealing the motivations behind her compelling retrospective. The discussion highlights how Krasner's creativity thrived amidst adversity, especially during challenging times with Jackson Pollock. Nairne emphasizes the reexamination of Krasner's identity within the abstract expressionist movement, showcasing her significant contributions beyond gender definition.

11 snips
Jun 21, 2024 • 25min
Episode 6: A Phoenix From the Ashes
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.

11 snips
Jun 14, 2024 • 22min
Episode 5: The Kiss of Death
In 1955, Jackson Pollock turns to a controversial psychotherapist amid his turbulent life. The emotional turmoil in Pollock and Lee Krasner's relationship is explored, revealing struggles with love and infidelity. A poignant tale unfolds as Maris observes her daughter while entangled in the history of the Sullivanians cult. Leigh finds healing through art after her husband's death, transforming grief into vibrant creations. The journey through loss and artistic expression highlights the power of creativity and resilience.

13 snips
Jun 7, 2024 • 29min
Episode 4: Jackson Pollock Inc.
Lee Krasner, an influential abstract expressionist painter and Jackson Pollock's partner, shares insights into their life together. They discuss their move to a dilapidated farmhouse in the Hamptons, where Jackson's creative breakthroughs began. The impact of their rural setting on Pollock's art emerges as a key theme. The tension rises during a chaotic dinner party, revealing struggles with alcoholism. The revolutionary drip painting technique and the dynamic collaboration between Lee and Jackson highlight their complex artistic journey and lasting legacy.

9 snips
May 31, 2024 • 33min
Episode 3: The Collector
Peggy Guggenheim, a transformative 20th-century art collector and gallery owner, shares insights from her journey in the art world. She offered hope to struggling artists during WWII, redefining the New York scene with her avant-garde gallery. The podcast discusses the tensions between artists like Lee Krasner and Jackson Pollock, highlighting how Peggy's support shaped their futures. It also explores the emotional complexities of art collecting and the passion that drives such endeavors amidst personal and societal turmoil.

8 snips
May 24, 2024 • 29min
Episode 2: Inner Rhythm
In this captivating discussion, young artist Lee Krasner shares her groundbreaking journey in 1936 America. She vividly describes the vibrant atmosphere of New York during the Great Depression, where artists sought joy amidst challenges. Krasner opens up about her struggles for recognition in a male-dominated art world while balancing personal and financial complexities. The conversation also dives into her bold embrace of abstract art, highlighting her pivotal encounters that helped shape her identity and legacy in the competitive New York art scene.

6 snips
May 17, 2024 • 21min
Episode 1: Crash
Lee Krasner, an influential artist known for her resilience and creativity, opens up about the heartbreaking moment she learned of her husband's death in 1956 while in Paris. She reflects on how personal tragedy intertwines with artistic expression, painting a portrait of the vibrant yet gritty art scene of 1950s New York. The conversation delves into the complexities of her relationship with Jackson Pollock, exploring love, betrayal, and legacy, revealing the emotional depth that shaped her remarkable contributions to the art world.

May 3, 2024 • 3min
Death of an Artist Season 2: Krasner and Pollock
Lee Krasner, the woman who made the modern art world, discusses her influence and talent in shaping modern art alongside her husband, Jackson Pollock. The podcast explores the impact of Pollock's death on Krasner and challenges the myths around his persona in the art world.

8 snips
Dec 20, 2022 • 32min
An Epilogue: Live from A.I.R. Gallery
Curator Patricia Margarita Hernandez, known for her insights on generational shifts in the art world, joins Helen for a lively conversation at the A.I.R. gallery. They dive into the evolving representation of women artists, referencing the legacy of Ana Mendieta. Topics include the impact of social media on activism, the complexities of identity and inclusion in art, and personal reflections on the challenges within the art community. A thought-provoking pushback from the audience adds an extra layer to this engaging exploration of art and feminism.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.