Lee Krasner

Definition

Lee Krasner was an influential American abstract expressionist painter, known for her dynamic and colorful compositions that played a vital role in shaping the art movement during the mid-20th century. Her work often blended personal experiences with broader themes of identity and feminism, highlighting the significance of female artists in a predominantly male-dominated art world. Krasner's contributions helped pave the way for future generations of women in the arts.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Lee Krasner was born on October 27, 1908, in Brooklyn, New York, and studied at various institutions including the National Academy of Design.
2. She played a crucial role in the New York School and was part of the group of artists who formed the Abstract Expressionist movement.
3. Krasner's artwork is recognized for its use of bold colors, dynamic brushwork, and incorporation of collage techniques.
4. Her relationship with Jackson Pollock had both supportive and challenging aspects, as she often faced overshadowing due to his fame, yet she remained a significant influence on his work.
5. In 1970, Krasner became the first woman to have a retrospective exhibition at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City.

Review Questions

• How did Lee Krasner's work contribute to the development of Abstract Expressionism?
  • Lee Krasner's work significantly contributed to Abstract Expressionism through her innovative use of color and form. Her paintings often displayed a unique emotional depth that reflected her personal experiences while also resonating with broader themes within the movement. Krasner's commitment to exploring her identity as a female artist allowed her to challenge conventional narratives about women in art, thus enriching the diversity of expressions found in Abstract Expressionism.
• In what ways did Lee Krasner's relationship with Jackson Pollock impact her artistic career and recognition?
  • Lee Krasner's relationship with Jackson Pollock had a complex impact on her career. While they supported each other's artistic practices, Pollock's fame often overshadowed Krasner's contributions. This dynamic sometimes limited her visibility in the art world. However, Krasner eventually emerged as a key figure in her own right, using her experiences to inform her art and assert her presence within a male-dominated field.
• Evaluate Lee Krasner's legacy within feminist art history and how it has shaped contemporary perspectives on women artists.
  • Lee Krasner's legacy within feminist art history is profound as she stands as a symbol of resilience and creativity in overcoming gender barriers in the art world. By asserting her unique voice within Abstract Expressionism, she has inspired contemporary movements that advocate for greater recognition of women artists. Her retrospective at MoMA marked a pivotal moment in acknowledging female contributions to modern art, which has encouraged ongoing discussions about representation and equity in the arts today.

Related terms

Abstract Expressionism: An artistic movement that emerged in the 1940s and 1950s, characterized by spontaneous, automatic, or subconscious creation, focusing on expressing emotion and individuality through abstract forms.

Feminism in Art: A movement that aims to promote and highlight women's contributions to art, questioning traditional narratives that often overlooked or marginalized female artists.

Jackson Pollock: A prominent abstract expressionist painter and Krasner's husband, known for his drip painting technique and significant influence on the art movement; their relationship often impacted Krasner's work.