The Archival Contradictions of Jackson Pollock

[BenjaminJames]

Jackson Pollock (and others) used household paints yet his paintings can be worth giant sums of money. Many of Pollock's works are now over 60 years old and still look great.

What info can you share in regard to what seems to me to be something of a contradiction to what we're being told about "always use archivally accepted artist supplies."

Ben

[DAK723]

Here's a short interview that might spread some light on the matter. According to the interview, Pollock was very aware of the materials he was using and their durability. He used mainly enamel paints and traditional artist oils.

http://www.moma.org/explore/conservation/pollock/interview1.html

Don

[TyeJ]

I talked to a custodian at the Chicago institute of art and he told me that they have to constantly sweep up paint particles underneath his paintings.... I dunno if that's true or not

[BenjaminJames]

Here's a short interview that might spread some light on the matter. According to the interview, Pollock was very aware of the materials he was using and their durability. He used mainly enamel paints and traditional artist oils.

http://www.moma.org/explore/conservation/pollock/interview1.html

Don

Sorry about the tardy reply but I just now found it. I've left this site for another art forum which better fits my needs. But thank you very much for taking the time to reply. This was very helful indeed.

Ben

[BenjaminJames]

I talked to a custodian at the Chicago institute of art and he told me that they have to constantly sweep up paint particles underneath his paintings.... I dunno if that's true or not

Thanks for this comment and I believe it's true. I know for a fact they have had to touch up some paintings and draw off the wet paint out of some. They then filled these heavier places with foam.

Pollock’s paintings are such a major investment that the museums must do all they can to preserve them and keep the myth going.

The fact is, none of his "Jack the Dripper" works are archival and therefore all are subject to early deterioration (which is happening now and being hidden from investors).

[perpetualstudent]

I cant remember where I read it, but I remember someone who worked in a gallery that housed his work saying that Pollocks are a slow moving train wreck..... such a shame!