7.4 Franz Kline
8 min read•august 19, 2024
Franz Kline, a key figure in , emerged from a background in illustration to become a pioneer of bold, gestural abstraction. His signature style, characterized by large-scale black and white paintings, was inspired by Japanese calligraphy and emphasized spontaneous brushwork.
Kline's work had a significant impact on the and . His use of stark contrasts and monumental canvases influenced generations of artists, cementing his place as a major force in postwar American art.
Biography of Franz Kline
Early life and education
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- Born in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania in 1910 to a German-American family
- Attended Girard College, a private boarding school in Philadelphia, where he excelled in art classes
- Studied art at Boston University from 1931 to 1935 but did not graduate
- Moved to New York City in 1938 to pursue a career as an illustrator and cartoonist
Influence of illustration
- Worked as a commercial illustrator for newspapers and magazines in the late 1930s and early 1940s
- Developed a bold, graphic style influenced by his illustration work
- Incorporated elements of caricature and exaggeration into his early paintings
- Gradually transitioned from figurative work to abstraction in the mid-1940s
Marriage to Elizabeth Parsons
- Met Elizabeth Parsons, a British ballet dancer, in New York City in the early 1940s
- Married Parsons in 1948 after a long courtship
- Parsons became an important source of emotional support and stability for Kline throughout his career
- The couple remained together until Kline's death in 1962
Development of signature style
Inspiration from Japanese calligraphy
- Discovered Japanese calligraphy in the late 1940s through friends and fellow artists
- Admired the , energy, and simplicity of Zen brushwork
- Began experimenting with large-scale, in black and white
- Incorporated elements of Japanese aesthetics into his abstract compositions
Use of black and white
- Focused primarily on black and white paintings from the late 1940s onward
- Used black and white to create stark contrasts and powerful visual impact
- Believed that color could be a distraction from the essential forms and structures of his compositions
- Occasionally incorporated subtle touches of color in later works
Spontaneous brush strokes
- Developed a technique of spontaneous, gestural brushwork inspired by calligraphy and action painting
- Created paintings through a process of improvisation and intuition rather than careful planning
- Used large, bold brushstrokes to convey a sense of energy, movement, and immediacy
- Embraced the element of chance and accident in his creative process
Large-scale canvases
- Began working on increasingly large canvases in the early 1950s
- Created monumental paintings that engulfed the viewer and commanded attention
- Used the scale of his paintings to create a sense of immersion and physicality
- Believed that large canvases allowed for greater freedom and expressiveness in his brushwork
Notable works by Kline
Painting Number 2 (1954)
- One of Kline's most famous and iconic paintings, measuring over 6 feet tall and 8 feet wide
- Features bold, black brushstrokes on a white background, creating a dynamic, architectural composition
- Exemplifies Kline's mature style and his mastery of large-scale, gestural abstraction
- Housed in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art in New York City
Chief (1950)
- An early example of Kline's signature black and white style, created on a smaller scale
- Depicts a central, totemic form composed of broad, slashing brushstrokes
- Demonstrates Kline's interest in primitive and indigenous art forms
- Marked a turning point in Kline's career toward a more abstract and expressive mode of painting
Nijinsky (1950)
- Named after the famous Russian ballet dancer Vaslav , reflecting Kline's interest in dance and movement
- Features a dense, interlocking network of black lines and shapes on a white ground
- Conveys a sense of energy, rhythm, and dynamism through its complex, layered composition
- Showcases Kline's ability to create a sense of depth and space through abstract means
Mahoning (1956)
- A monumental painting measuring over 6 feet tall and 8 feet wide, similar in scale to
- Named after the River in Pennsylvania, evoking Kline's childhood memories and sense of place
- Features sweeping, calligraphic brushstrokes in black on a white background, creating a sense of flow and movement
- Demonstrates Kline's continued exploration of large-scale, gestural abstraction in the mid-1950s
Impact on Abstract Expressionism
Role in New York School
- Kline was a key figure in the New York School, a group of artists who helped establish Abstract Expressionism in the 1940s and 50s
- Along with artists like , , and Mark Rothko, Kline helped to define the aesthetic and philosophical principles of the movement
- Contributed to the development of action painting, a style characterized by spontaneous, gestural brushwork and an emphasis on the physical act of painting
- Participated in important group exhibitions and collaborations with other New York School artists
Influence on action painting
- Kline's bold, calligraphic brushwork and emphasis on the act of painting itself had a significant impact on the development of action painting
- His large-scale, improvisational approach to composition influenced younger artists like Robert Motherwell and Joan Mitchell
- Helped to establish the idea of the as an arena for physical and emotional expression
- Demonstrated the potential for abstract painting to convey a sense of energy, movement, and vitality
Comparison to Jackson Pollock
- Kline and Pollock were both major figures in the Abstract Expressionist movement and pioneers of action painting
- Both artists used unconventional tools and techniques to apply paint to the canvas (Kline used large brushes and house paint, while Pollock used dripping and splattering)
- However, Kline's paintings were generally more structured and compositionally balanced than Pollock's all-over drip paintings
- Kline's use of black and white also set him apart from Pollock's more colorful and chaotic canvases
Legacy in abstract art
- Kline's work had a lasting impact on the development of abstract art in the second half of the 20th century
- His bold, gestural style and use of black and white influenced generations of artists, from the Color Field painters of the 1960s to the Neo-Expressionists of the 1980s
- Helped to establish the idea of the abstract painting as a direct expression of the artist's psyche and creative process
- Contributed to the ongoing dialogue between Eastern and Western artistic traditions in modern and contemporary art
Critical reception and exhibitions
Contemporary reviews and critiques
- Kline's work initially received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising his bold, innovative style and others dismissing his paintings as simplistic or unrefined
- Over time, however, Kline's reputation grew, and he came to be recognized as a major figure in the Abstract Expressionist movement
- Critics noted the power, energy, and emotional intensity of Kline's paintings, as well as their unique fusion of Eastern and Western aesthetics
- Kline's work was often compared to that of other leading Abstract Expressionists, particularly Willem de Kooning and Jackson Pollock
Major solo exhibitions
- Kline had his first solo exhibition at the Egan Gallery in New York City in 1950, which helped to establish his reputation as an important emerging artist
- Throughout the 1950s, Kline had regular solo shows at major galleries in New York, including the Sidney Janis Gallery and the Stable Gallery
- In 1968, the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York held a major retrospective of Kline's work, cementing his status as a key figure in postwar American art
- Subsequent retrospectives have been held at the Phillips Collection in Washington, D.C. (1979), the Cincinnati Art Museum (1985), and the Menil Collection in Houston (1994), among others
Inclusion in group shows
- Kline's work was included in many important group exhibitions of Abstract Expressionist art in the 1950s and 60s
- He participated in the landmark "9th Street Show" in 1951, which helped to introduce the New York School to a wider audience
- Kline's paintings were also included in major international exhibitions, such as the Venice Biennale (1956 and 1960) and Documenta (1959 and 1964)
- His work was featured alongside that of other leading Abstract Expressionists in exhibitions at the Museum of Modern Art, the Whitney Museum of American Art, and other major institutions
Posthumous recognition
- Since his death in 1962, Kline's work has continued to be widely exhibited and collected by major museums and private collectors around the world
- His paintings have been featured in numerous important exhibitions of postwar American art, including "Action/Abstraction: Pollock, de Kooning, and American Art, 1940-1976" at the Jewish Museum in New York (2008) and "Abstract Expressionist New York" at the Museum of Modern Art (2010)
- Kline's work has also been the subject of scholarly studies and monographs, cementing his reputation as a major figure in the history of American art
- Today, Kline is widely recognized as one of the most important and influential artists of the Abstract Expressionist movement, and his work continues to inspire and challenge new generations of artists and viewers
Personal life and later years
Friendship with Willem de Kooning
- Kline and de Kooning were close friends and artistic colleagues, often visiting each other's studios and exchanging ideas about painting
- The two artists shared a similar background as commercial illustrators and a passion for the bold, expressive possibilities of abstract art
- De Kooning and Kline, along with other members of the New York School, helped to create a sense of community and shared purpose among the Abstract Expressionists
- Kline and de Kooning remained close until Kline's death in 1962, and de Kooning delivered a eulogy at Kline's funeral
Struggle with alcoholism
- Throughout his life, Kline struggled with alcoholism, which had a significant impact on his health and personal relationships
- Kline's drinking began to escalate in the 1950s as he gained increasing recognition and success as an artist
- His alcohol abuse contributed to the breakdown of his marriage to Elizabeth Parsons and strained his friendships with other artists and colleagues
- Despite attempts to quit drinking, Kline continued to struggle with alcoholism until his death in 1962
Premature death at 51
- Kline died of heart failure on May 13, 1962, at the age of 51
- His early death was a shock to the art world and a great loss to the Abstract Expressionist movement
- At the time of his death, Kline was at the height of his career and influence, with major exhibitions and commissions planned for the coming years
- Kline's untimely passing cut short a brilliant and promising artistic career, but his work and legacy continue to inspire and influence artists to this day
Estate and foundation
- After Kline's death, his estate was managed by his widow, Elizabeth Parsons, and his longtime dealer, Sidney Janis
- In 1986, the Franz Kline Foundation was established to promote and preserve Kline's artistic legacy
- The foundation works to support exhibitions, publications, and scholarly research related to Kline's life and work
- The foundation also provides grants and scholarships to young artists and art students, helping to carry on Kline's commitment to artistic innovation and experimentation
- Today, the Franz Kline Foundation continues to play an important role in the promotion and understanding of Kline's work and his place in the history of American art
Key Terms to Review (20)
1959 Venice Biennale: The 1959 Venice Biennale was a pivotal international art exhibition held in Venice, Italy, showcasing contemporary art and promoting innovative practices. This edition is especially notable for its emphasis on Abstract Expressionism and the representation of American artists, highlighting their growing influence in the global art scene. The event marked a significant moment in art history as it reflected shifting artistic trends and a broader acceptance of avant-garde movements.
Abstract Expressionism: Abstract Expressionism is an art movement that emerged in the 1940s and 1950s, characterized by spontaneous, automatic, or subconscious creation. It emphasizes personal expression and the act of painting itself, often resulting in large-scale works that prioritize color, form, and texture over representational imagery. This movement reflects a break from traditional artistic values and embraces the idea that art can convey emotional experiences through abstraction.
Action painting: Action painting is an artistic style characterized by spontaneous, dynamic brushwork and an emphasis on the physical act of painting itself. This approach reflects the artist's emotional state and engages the viewer through energetic compositions and bold colors. The technique highlights the importance of movement, rhythm, and the visceral connection between the artist and their medium, creating a visual experience that goes beyond mere representation.
Canvas: Canvas is a durable fabric used as a support for painting, typically made from cotton or linen. It has played a crucial role in the evolution of modern art, allowing artists to experiment with size, texture, and form. The use of canvas has become a defining characteristic of many avant-garde movements, providing a flexible surface that accommodates various techniques and styles.
Chief: In the context of avant-garde movements in art, the term 'chief' often refers to a leading figure or key artist who plays a pivotal role in shaping a movement's direction and philosophy. This term encapsulates the idea of a primary influencer whose works and ideas set trends and inspire others within the artistic community, making it essential to understand their contributions to fully appreciate the evolution of modern art.
Form and structure: Form and structure refer to the overall organization, arrangement, and physical aspects of a work of art. This includes elements like shape, line, color, and composition, which come together to create a unified piece. Understanding form and structure is essential in analyzing how artists communicate ideas, emotions, and themes through their visual language.
Gestural brushstrokes: Gestural brushstrokes refer to a style of painting where the artist's movements and emotions are expressed through bold, dynamic, and often spontaneous strokes of the brush. This technique emphasizes the act of painting itself, allowing the physical gesture to become part of the artwork's visual language. In this context, gestural brushstrokes embody the energy and immediacy of the artist's interaction with the canvas, creating a direct link between the artist’s feelings and the final piece.
Jackson Pollock: Jackson Pollock was an influential American painter known for his role in the abstract expressionist movement, particularly for developing a unique style of drip painting that emphasized spontaneity and the physical act of painting. His innovative techniques and approaches have made him a key figure in modern art, connecting to various aspects of artistic expression, including the works and philosophies of other prominent artists.
Mahoning: Mahoning refers to a term connected with the abstract expressionist painter Franz Kline, often associated with the theme of gestural abstraction and the dynamic quality of his brushwork. Kline's work reflects a strong emotional intensity and a sense of movement, with 'mahoning' embodying both the physical act of painting and the emotional resonance found within his art. This term can also denote the larger exploration of the relationship between form, color, and personal expression that characterizes much of Kline's oeuvre.
Monochrome palette: A monochrome palette refers to a color scheme that utilizes variations of a single hue, including different shades, tints, and tones. This approach can create a cohesive and harmonious visual experience, allowing artists to focus on form, texture, and composition without the distraction of multiple colors. It is often used to evoke specific moods or emotions, emphasizing the power of simplicity in art.
New York School: The New York School refers to a group of American artists, poets, and musicians that emerged in the mid-20th century, centered in New York City, known for their avant-garde styles and emphasis on abstract expressionism. This movement redefined the boundaries of art by prioritizing spontaneity, emotional expression, and individualism, significantly influencing the development of modern art. Key figures from this movement include prominent painters whose works embodied the philosophy and techniques that characterize this unique cultural moment.
Nijinsky: Vaslav Nijinsky was a groundbreaking Russian ballet dancer and choreographer, known for his exceptional talent and innovative contributions to modern dance in the early 20th century. He is often associated with the Ballets Russes, where he not only performed but also created some of the most influential choreographies that transformed the perception of dance and movement in performance art.
Non-representational art: Non-representational art is a form of art that does not attempt to represent or depict an object, person, or scene from the real world. Instead, it focuses on the use of colors, shapes, forms, and lines to create compositions that express emotions, ideas, or concepts without relying on recognizable imagery. This approach encourages viewers to interpret the artwork subjectively, allowing for personal connections and experiences with the piece.
Oil paint: Oil paint is a medium consisting of pigments suspended in a drying oil, commonly linseed oil, which allows for greater flexibility and richness in color. This technique became prominent during the Renaissance and has been used extensively by artists due to its slow drying time, enabling blending and layering. The use of oil paint can be seen in the bold, expressive works of certain artists and movements, allowing for depth and vibrancy that complements the distinctive styles of abstraction and color exploration.
Painting Number 2: Painting Number 2 is a significant work by Franz Kline, an influential American abstract expressionist artist known for his bold, gestural brushstrokes and stark contrasts. This piece exemplifies Kline's exploration of the interplay between form and space, using dynamic black lines against a lighter background to create an energetic composition. The work embodies the essence of Kline's style, reflecting his interest in improvisation and spontaneity, which are hallmarks of the abstract expressionist movement.
Post-World War II America: Post-World War II America refers to the period following the end of World War II in 1945, characterized by significant social, political, and economic changes. This era saw the rise of the United States as a global superpower, the emergence of new cultural movements, and a shift in artistic expression, including the development of Abstract Expressionism, where artists like Franz Kline played a pivotal role in redefining modern art.
Spontaneity: Spontaneity refers to the quality of being impulsive and unplanned, allowing for a free and organic flow of creativity. In the context of art, this concept emphasizes the importance of intuition, emotional expression, and immediate action in the creative process. Spontaneity encourages artists to act on their instincts without overthinking or conforming to traditional techniques, resulting in works that feel alive and dynamic.
The stable gallery exhibition: The stable gallery exhibition refers to a consistent and fixed approach to presenting artworks within a designated space, typically focusing on a specific theme or artistic movement. This type of exhibition contrasts with more experimental or transient displays, allowing viewers to engage deeply with the works and their context over an extended period. It aims to create a thoughtful dialogue between the artworks and the audience, providing a stable environment for contemplation and appreciation.
Visual Rhythm: Visual rhythm refers to the use of repeated elements in a composition that creates a sense of movement or flow. It is an important principle in art that can evoke emotional responses and guide the viewer's eye throughout a piece. This concept plays a significant role in both color theory and form, as it can be established through patterns, colors, and shapes, allowing artists to create dynamic compositions that resonate with viewers.
Willem de Kooning: Willem de Kooning was a Dutch-American painter known for his influential role in the Abstract Expressionism movement, characterized by his dynamic brushwork and energetic compositions. His work often blurred the line between abstraction and figuration, particularly in his famous series of women paintings. De Kooning's style reflected a passionate approach to painting that was integral to the development of action painting and resonated with the works of artists like Franz Kline.