Pollock-Krasner House and Study Center, A National Historic Landmark, will launch Express Yourself!, Live ZOOM video-chat tours with Pollock-Krasner House and Study Center Education Coordinator Joyce Raimondo, on Tuesday, March 31.
The series – suitable for adults, teens and children – will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays through Tuesday, April 28.
“During this uncertain time, people need to find creative ways to express their feelings,” Raimondo explained. “Guiding people through Pollock and Krasner’s studio and home serves as a great example of creative expression with simple art techniques people can do at home.”
Jackson Pollock, who is regarded as “the undisputed leader of the Abstract Expressionist movement,” said, “I want to express my feelings rather than illustrate them.” To create his works, the artist often used a technique of spontaneous pouring or splashing house paint onto a surface.
Pollock married fellow artist Lee Krasner in 1945 and they relocated from New York City to Long Island’s East End. A loan from art dealer Peggy Guggenheim allowed the couple to purchase a small homestead overlooking Accabonac Creek in Springs, which now serves as The Pollock-Krasner House and Study Center.
After showing off the artists’ studio, Raimondo will delve into how viewers can ‘Express Yourself’ by making their own abstract art inspired by Pollock and Krasner’s painting techniques. Raimondo will walk viewers through creating their own drip painting or collages utilizing common household supplies. Zoomers will not just experience the art displayed in the Pollock and Krasner home, they will also be able to interact with Raimondo and fellow viewers and chat about the masterpieces.
“Joyce’s engaging presentation is the next best thing to being with her in person,” Helen Harrison, Pollock-Krasner House and Study Center Museum Director, relayed. “She makes the artists’ approach to creativity accessible and fun.”
“It was so joyful to receive emails following the program of children’s Pollock inspired drip paintings,” Raimondo noted. “Homebound adults also benefit — one woman who has been diagnosed with COVID-19, commented that she was so happy she had something to look forward to while at home recovering.”
On Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 2 to 2:40 p.m., the classes will be geared towards children ages five to twelve and adult companions. To join the 2 p.m. Zoom, visit zoom.us. Later on, from 4 to 4:40 p.m., the workshops will be geared towards adults and teens. To join the 4 p.m. Zoom, visit zoom.us.
“We are delighted to offer this program,” Raimondo concluded.
For more information about the Pollock-Krasner House and Study Center, visit www.stonybrook.edu.