Art With an Exception
Abstract expressionism evokes a tremendous amount of human emotion. Some of the finest artwork of this genre can be found in the world renowned Metropolitan Museum of Art. While much of abstract expressionism is creative artwork in its finest form, there are some pieces that should in no way be referred to as “art.”
Jules Olitski’s “Purple Mekle Lippis” is a stunning work of art. The title translates to huge lips, however the artwork can resemble perfect balance as it has two large rocks on top of each other in perfect harmony. The vast array of interpretations of this one piece alone can lead to a series of discussions as to its literal and metaphysical meaning.
Three dimensional objects can also be works of abstract expressionism. Theodore J. Roszak’s “Firebird” creates a powerful image that looks angry, fierce, monstrous, beastly—a truly dominant killing machine. The statue is spectacular, one of the highlights of the exhibit. In comparison, Richard Stankiewicz “Fish Lurking” looks nothing like a fishing contraption but instead like a torture device you would find a movie such as Saw or Hostel.
The highlight of the exhibit was Morris Louis’s masterpiece. The huge canvas had colorful diagonal lines in each corner with a blank space in the middle. The tremendous size of the canvas is overwhelming, instantly submersing its viewers. Staring at the canvas long enough could potentially create illusions of the colors swaying or create a vision of time travel.
But not everything can perfect. Jackson Pollack’s “Number 28” is a travesty to abstract expressionism. His technique of spilling paint is in no way art; it is simply randomness that can be created by anyone. Pollack did not plan for the outcome of his painting and thus anything that was created was luck, something that could be done any individual with paint and a canvas.
The exhibit as a whole shows the professionalism of the Met. The alignment of the artwork, and the space created to view them is genius, and can even be considered art in its own right. Furthermore, the Met does not disappoint with proper lighting, which is vital in viewing artwork. The exhibit is perfect for all ages, and can be thought evoking even for those who either despise abstract expressionism or know nothing of it.