At the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, a landmark exhibition is allowing Lee Krasner to finally emerge from the long-standing shadow of her husband, Jackson Pollock. For decades, art history has often prioritized Pollock’s legacy, but this new show examines Krasner as an artist in her own right.
Beyond her own artistic practice and her role as a partner to the often volatile Pollock, Krasner served as the unofficial publicist for her husband’s career. She recognized the gender dynamics of the mid-20th century art world with clear-eyed realism. According to curator David Breslin, Krasner understood that if one partner in the couple was to achieve commercial success, it would likely be him. She prioritized paying the bills and supporting his work, all while maintaining her own professional trajectory.
Breslin, who collaborated with Brinda Kumar for three years to develop the comprehensive dual exhibition, notes that Krasner was a staunch champion of Pollock’s art but also deeply aware of the political landscape she navigated. The show aims to present both artists on their own terms, highlighting Krasner’s significant contributions to the abstract expressionist movement without diminishing the complexity of their shared history.
Curator Breslin did a great job highlighting her pragmatic choices. It wasn’t sacrifice; it was strategy.
Pollock gets all the fame while Krasner held it together. Classic story, sadly not unique enough.
Does this exhibition actually address how the art market still sidelines women, or just polish history?
So she managed his career strategy too? That’s a whole different kind of artistic genius I hadn’t considered before.
Finally! It is about time Lee Krasner gets the solo recognition she absolutely deserves.