Jackson Pollock, Composition with red strokes, 1950

Created in 1950, Composition with Red Strokes is a striking example of Jackson Pollock’s mature drip painting technique, a hallmark of the Abstract Expressionist movement. By this time, Pollock had fully embraced his revolutionary method of action painting, where he abandoned traditional brushwork in favor of pouring, dripping, and splattering paint directly onto the canvas.

This composition features a complex web of energetic red strokes, layered over a chaotic yet harmonious tangle of black, white, and earthy tones. The use of red injects a sense of intensity and movement, drawing the viewer’s eye across the canvas in an unpredictable yet rhythmic flow. Unlike traditional paintings with a clear focal point, Pollock’s “all-over” composition ensures that every inch of the canvas is equally dynamic, immersing the viewer in a continuous visual experience.

Pollock’s technique at this stage involved placing the canvas flat on the floor, allowing him to engage with the work from all angles. He used unconventional materials such as industrial enamel paints and moved around the canvas with a combination of controlled precision and spontaneous motion. His process was deeply physical and instinctual, aligning with his belief that painting should be an extension of the subconscious mind.

1950 was a defining year for Pollock, as it marked the height of his drip period, producing some of his most celebrated works, including One: Number 31, 1950 and Autumn Rhythm. Composition with Red Strokes stands as a powerful representation of this era, showcasing his ability to translate raw energy, emotion, and movement into a purely abstract visual language.

Today, this work remains a significant piece within modern art history, embodying the radical innovation and expressive force that made Pollock one of the most influential artists of the 20th century.