Volume 17

Convergence by Jackson Pollock — The Thomas Crown Affair by John McTiernan — The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde

Happy Sunday and welcome back! I think the art section of Giselle daydreams for the time being will showcase a new artist in each new volume, as there are so many artists I have on my bucket list to write about! Today, I’m writing about Jackson Pollock, also known as Jack the Dripper, who pioneered Abstract Expressionism. His drip painting epitomised his iconic style and oeuvre. I’m also writing about a thought-provoking film on an artwork heist. Finally, I'm touching on a masterpiece from Gothic literature. I feel all the chosen pieces are intertwined with art, and I love it!

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Art

Convergence by Jackson Pollock (1952)

Convergence is a significant painting by American artist Jackson Pollock, created in 1952. It is considered one of Pollock's masterpieces and is emblematic of his signature style, which became known as Abstract Expressionism.

In the aftermath of World War II, many artists sought new avenues of expression, turning away from traditional styles and themes. In 1951, Pollock articulated this shift, stating,

“It seems to me that the modern painter cannot express his age, the aeroplane, the atom bomb, the radio, in the old forms of the Renaissance or any other past culture. Each age finds its own technique.”

During the late 1940s, Pollock pioneered the technique for which he is renowned—drip painting. Placing the canvas on the floor, he remarked,

“this way I can walk around it, work from the four sides and literally be in the painting.”

This method provided Pollock with a blend of chance and control as he dripped, poured, and splattered paint onto the surface. Amidst the interwoven skeins and stains of pigment, everyday objects such as nails and coins found their way into the composition. For instance, a small match is embedded in paint near the centre of Convergence.

Convergence is a prime example of Abstract Expressionism, a movement that emerged in the mid-20th century and emphasised spontaneous, gestural brushwork and the exploration of emotion and the subconscious. Pollock's technique involved dripping, pouring, and splattering paint onto a canvas laid on the floor, allowing him to work from all angles and create dynamic, fluid compositions. Convergence is imbued with a sense of emotional intensity and raw energy, inviting viewers to engage with the painting on an emotional level, and it also highlights the power of art to evoke and convey complex emotions. The spontaneous and gestural nature of his brushwork allows him to convey a wide range of emotions, from joy and exuberance to turmoil and angst. Convergence invites viewers to interpret and experience it on a visceral level, tapping into their own emotions and subconscious.

Convergence initially began as a black-and-white work, but Pollock, unsatisfied with the result, added colour to salvage it. While critics debated its success in 1952, today, Convergence is widely regarded as one of Pollock's masterpieces, showcasing his unparalleled talent and innovative approach to painting.

Seeking new directions after his drip paintings, Pollock experimented with black and white, initially beginning Convergence in this monochromatic scheme. However, dissatisfied with the outcome, he introduced colour to salvage the work. In 1952, critics debated the success of his endeavour. Today, Convergence is widely regarded as one of Pollock’s masterworks, showcasing his innovative approach and enduring influence in the art world.

Convergence is characterised by its energetic brushwork, dynamic movement, as well as chaotic composition, with layers of intertwining lines, shapes, and colours that seem to dance across the canvas. The swirling lines, splatters, and drips of paint create a sense of kinetic energy, suggesting constant motion and change. This theme of movement can symbolize the ever-changing nature of life and the universe. Pollock's use of drips, splatters, and swirling forms creates a sense of movement and rhythm, drawing the viewer's eye around the painting in a dynamic manner. The seemingly chaotic composition of Convergence also hints at a deeper sense of order beneath the surface. Despite the seemingly random arrangement of lines and colours, there is a sense of balance and harmony in the overall composition. This theme reflects the idea that chaos and order are interconnected and often coexist in the natural world.

One of the defining features of Pollock's work is the concept of the all-over composition, where every part of the canvas is equally important and there is no focal point or hierarchy of forms. Indeed, despite the diversity of forms and colours in Convergence, there is a sense of unity and wholeness in the overall composition. Convergence exemplifies this approach, as the paint is distributed evenly across the entire surface, creating a sense of unity and cohesion. Each element contributes to the cohesive whole, suggesting interconnectedness and interdependence. This theme reflects the idea of unity in diversity and the interconnectedness of all things in the universe.

Pollock's technique of dripping and splattering paint onto the canvas reflects a sense of freedom and spontaneity in the creative process. Convergence celebrates the act of artistic expression itself, emphasising the importance of intuition and improvisation in the act of creation. Pollock's drip painting technique allowed him to tap into his subconscious and express himself intuitively. Convergence reflects the artist's inner thoughts, feelings, and impulses, without the constraints of rational thought or representation. Dripping paint underscores the importance of tapping into one's subconscious and embracing intuition in the creative process.

The impact of Convergence extended beyond the art world. Pollock's style, exemplified by Convergence, represents a significant and innovative development in the history of painting. During the time of its creation, the United States was deeply entrenched in the Cold War with Russia, and Pollock's painting symbolised the values of free speech and freedom of expression. It defied convention and rebelled against societal constraints, embodying the essence of what America stood for in a messy yet profound package.

Abstract Expressionist works like Convergence are often open to multiple interpretations, as they lack representational imagery and invite viewers to engage with the painting on a purely visual and emotional level. The swirling forms and layers of paint in Convergence suggest a sense of movement and transformation, but the meaning ultimately lies in the eye of the beholder.

While these themes may not be explicitly stated in Convergence, they can be inferred from the painting's abstract form and expressive style. The beauty of abstract art lies in its ability to evoke multiple interpretations and meanings, inviting viewers to engage with the artwork on a personal and subjective level.

Convergence is a powerful and evocative painting that encapsulates Jackson Pollock's innovative approach to art-making and his ability to convey complex emotions through abstract forms and gestures. It remains a seminal work in the history of 20th-century art and continues to captivate viewers with its dynamic energy and expressive intensity.

*Anecdote* Did you know that in 1964, puzzle company Springbok Editions released a 340-piece jigsaw puzzle inspired by Pollock's painting? It was marketed as the world's most difficult puzzle. This release led to hundreds of thousands of Americans purchasing the puzzle, highlighting the widespread recognition and influence of Pollock's work.

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Cinema

The Thomas Crown Affair by John McTiernan (1999)

I was recommended to watch this film by a dear friend several years ago, and I probably watched it a few times. I’m writing about the remake version from 1999, but there the first version released in 1968. As an art lover and someone who once daydreamed of living in New York, this film hit all the boxes for me to appreciate it. The soundtrack Sinnerman by Nina Simone also contributes to the success of the film and is a great song to listen to while on the road!

The Thomas Crown Affair from 1999 is a stylish remake of the 1968 film, directed by John McTiernan. The Thomas Crown Affair is a captivating heist film that not only provides thrilling action and suspense but also delves into the complexities of power, wealth, and desire. The film retains the core premise of the original but updates it for a contemporary audience.

The film received positive reviews for its sleek direction, stylish cinematography, and the chemistry between Brosnan and Russo. It is known for its sophisticated heist sequences and the dynamic between the two lead characters as they navigate the world of high-stakes crime and romantic tension.

In this version, Thomas Crown is a wealthy businessman and art aficionado who seemingly has everything he desires, yet he seeks excitement and challenge through his criminal activities. His identity is intertwined with his ability to outsmart others and control his environment, and he orchestrates the theft of a valuable painting from a museum. Catherine Banning, an insurance investigator, is assigned to the case and becomes entangled in a game of cat and mouse with Crown. As their mutual attraction grows, Banning must decide where her loyalties lie and whether she can trust Crown. The film raises questions about whether wealth and power are enough to define a person's identity or if there is a deeper sense of self beyond material possessions.

Crown thrives on risk-taking and the adrenaline rush of pulling off elaborate heists. The film examines the allure of risk and the potentially high stakes involved, both financially and emotionally. It explores the idea that some individuals are willing to take extraordinary risks for the thrill of the challenge, regardless of the consequences.

At the heart of the film is the dynamic between Thomas Crown and Catherine Banning. Crown, played by Pierce Brosnan, is a wealthy and charming businessman who thrives on risk and excitement. Banning, portrayed by Rene Russo, is a sharp and determined investigator who is both intrigued and repelled by Crown's actions. Their relationship evolves throughout the film, oscillating between attraction and suspicion, trust and betrayal.

Throughout the film, there is a delicate balance of trust and betrayal between the characters. Crown's motives are often ambiguous, and Banning must navigate a web of lies and deception to uncover the truth. The film explores the complexities of trust in relationships, particularly when there are conflicting interests and hidden agendas at play.

One of the film's most compelling aspects is the romantic tension between Crown and Banning. The romantic tension between Crown and Banning adds another layer of complexity to the film. Their relationship is fraught with conflicting emotions, as they are drawn to each other despite being on opposite sides of the law. Their chemistry is palpable, adding an extra layer of intrigue to their interactions. Despite their opposing roles, they find themselves drawn to each other, leading to a complex and ultimately bittersweet resolution. The film explores the boundaries between love and obsession, trust and suspicion, as the characters navigate their feelings amidst the high-stakes game they are playing.

The film also explores the allure and consequences of wealth and power. Crown's wealth and social status afford him certain privileges, including the ability to manipulate situations to his advantage. Crown's motivations for orchestrating the heist are not purely financial; rather, he seeks the thrill of the challenge and the satisfaction of outsmarting those in authority. Banning, on the other hand, represents the establishment and is tasked with upholding the law. Their interactions highlight the tension between privilege and responsibility, as well as the blurred lines between right and wrong in a world where money can buy almost anything. The film portrays the influence that money and status can have on one's actions and relationships. It also raises questions about the moral responsibility that comes with privilege and whether those in positions of power are held to the same standards as others.

The stolen painting, San Giorgio Maggiore at Dusk (1908) by Claude Monet, serves as a symbol of both beauty and deception. It becomes a catalyst for the characters' actions and reveals deeper layers of their personalities. The stolen masterpiece becomes a metaphor for the illusions that people create and the masks they wear to conceal their true intentions. For Crown, the painting represents a challenge to his intellect and a way to assert his dominance. For Banning, it becomes a tool to uncover the truth and expose Crown's vulnerabilities. The art world itself is portrayed as glamorous yet corrupt, echoing the moral ambiguity of the characters' choices. The film explores the blurred lines between reality and illusion, particularly in the context of the art world where authenticity and forgery often coexist.

John McTiernan infuses the film with stylish visuals, sleek cinematography, and a jazzy soundtrack which enhance its sophisticated atmosphere. The heist sequences are meticulously choreographed, showcasing Crown's meticulous planning and cool demeanour under pressure. The film's pacing is brisk, keeping the audience engaged as the plot twists and turns towards its climactic conclusion.

The Thomas Crown Affair is a stylish and thought-provoking thriller that combines gripping action with deeper thematic exploration. Its dynamic characters, sleek aesthetics, and captivating storyline make it a standout in the genre. The Thomas Crown Affair delves into these themes with sophistication and style, offering audiences a thought-provoking exploration of human nature and the complexities of desire and ambition.

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Literature

The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde (1890)

It’s been a while since my literature recommendations were originally written in English. In today’s volume, I’m writing about The Picture of Dorian Gray, a literary classic and the only novel by prominent Irish playwright Oscar Wilde.

The Picture of Dorian Gray is a novel written by Oscar Wilde which was first published in 1890. It is a Gothic and philosophical novel that explores themes of vanity, morality, art, and the consequences of aestheticism.

The story follows Dorian Gray, a handsome and wealthy young man who becomes the subject of a portrait painted by the artist Basil Hallward. Influenced by the hedonistic philosophy of Lord Henry Wotton, Dorian wishes that he could remain young and beautiful while the portrait ages instead. His wish is granted, and Dorian remains youthful and unblemished while his portrait reflects the moral decay and corruption resulting from his sinful lifestyle. As Dorian indulges in a life of pleasure and excess, he becomes increasingly detached from morality and ethical concerns. His pursuit of pleasure leads to tragic consequences for himself and those around him, ultimately leading to his downfall.

One of the central themes of the novel revolves around the concept of beauty and its transient nature. Dorian Gray's desire for eternal youth and physical perfection leads him down a path of moral degradation. Wilde examines how society's obsession with beauty can corrupt individuals and blur the line between appearance and reality.

One of the central tenets of the novel is the philosophy of aestheticism, which emphasises the pursuit of beauty and sensual pleasure above all else. Dorian Gray embodies this philosophy, believing that beauty is the only thing worth pursuing in life. However, Wilde critiques the shallow nature of aestheticism by portraying its negative consequences, as Dorian's pursuit of pleasure leads to his moral corruption and eventual downfall.

The novel examines the relationship between art and life, particularly through the character of Basil Hallward, the artist who paints Dorian's portrait. The portrait serves as a mirror of Dorian's soul, reflecting his inner corruption and moral decay. Basil's devotion to aestheticism and his belief in the transformative power of art ultimately leads to his downfall. Wilde explores the idea that art can reveal deeper truths about human nature but can also be manipulated and corrupted.

Society's expectations and norms play a significant role in shaping the characters' behaviour and attitudes. Dorian Gray is influenced by the hedonistic philosophies and the cynical worldview of Lord Henry Wotton, who encourages him to embrace a life of pleasure and indulgence. Furthermore, Dorian Gray also succumbs to the superficial values of Victorian society. Wilde critiques the hypocrisy and moral rigidity of society while also highlighting the dangers of conformity and superficiality. Similarly, Basil Hallward's idolisation of Dorian and his belief in the transformative power of art contribute to Dorian's downfall.

The Picture of Dorian Gray explores the consequences of immorality and the corruption of one's moral compass. At the beginning of the novel, Dorian Gray is portrayed as a young man of innocence and purity. However, his encounter with Lord Henry Wotton and his subsequent desire for eternal youth and beauty mark the beginning of his moral decay. As Dorian indulges in a life of hedonism and sin, his innocence is gradually eroded, and he becomes increasingly detached from ethical concerns. Dorian's pursuit of pleasure and indulgence leads him to abandon ethical principles and embrace a life of hedonism. His actions have devastating effects on those around him, highlighting the destructive power of unchecked desire.

The Picture of Dorian Gray explores the consequences of the relentless pursuit of pleasure and gratification. Dorian Gray's quest for sensory experiences and worldly delights ultimately leads to his spiritual and moral decay. Wilde suggests that true fulfilment cannot be found in hedonism alone and warns against the dangers of excess.

The Picture of Dorian Gray delves into the idea of the duality of human nature, particularly through the character of Dorian Gray. On the surface, Dorian appears charming and virtuous, but beneath the facade lies a darker, more sinister side. This inner conflict is symbolised by the portrait, which reflects the moral degradation and corruption of Dorian's soul while his outward appearance remains unchanged.

Ultimately, The Picture of Dorian Gray is a cautionary tale about the consequences of sin and moral decay. Dorian's refusal to confront his own actions and his relentless pursuit of pleasure lead to his tragic demise. Wilde suggests that true happiness and fulfilment cannot be found in the pursuit of superficial pleasures but require moral integrity and self-awareness.

The Picture of Dorian Gray is a masterpiece of Gothic literature that delves deep into the complexities of human nature, morality, the Victorian era's obsession with appearances and the consequences of shallow aestheticism.The thought-provoking novel is renowned for its witty dialogue, rich symbolism, and exploration of the conflict between art and life. The Picture of Dorian Gray remains a timeless classic which continues to captivate readers today with its provocative themes and timeless insights into the complexities of the human condition.

I hope you enjoyed the seventeenth edition of Giselle daydreams.

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