Paul
Jenkins
Paul Jenkins, an Abstract Expressionist who employed vibrant colours and fluid forms, was known for his 'phenomena' paintings. If you’re looking for original Paul Jenkins prints and editions for sale or would like to sell, request a complimentary valuation and browse our network’s most in-demand works.
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Biography
Paul Jenkins, a prominent figure in the Post-War American art scene, established a distinctive artistic voice with his bold exploration of colour and light. His oeuvre, characterised by its ethereal abstraction and fluid forms, established Jenkins as a significant figure of abstract painting.
Born in Kansas City, Missouri, in 1923, Jenkins exhibited an early affinity for the arts, which led him to study at the Kansas City Art Institute. His artistic education led him to New York, where he attended the Art Students League, and later, to the Accademia di Belle Arti in Italy. Jenkins' development as an artist was marked by the cultural landscapes of post-war Europe, where he absorbed the influences of contemporaneous avant-garde circles.
Jenkins' practise veered away from the more conventional painting methods of his peers. He became known for his intuitive pouring technique, where he manipulated the flow of paint on canvas through tilting and guiding paint as opposed to brush application. This technique underscored Jenkins's belief in the spiritual and energetic power of painting, as he sought to channel emotion through of colour and form.
The signature of Jenkins' practise can be seen in his Phenomena series, which captured the intangible and the transient. These works, often monumental in scale, swirled with vibrant hues and translucent layers, inviting viewers to contemplate the interplay between matter and spirit. It was through pieces like Phenomena Wind From Under that Jenkins defined his distinct approach but and contributed to the broader dialogue of Abstract Expressionism.
Printmaking also played an important role in Jenkins' broader practice. His 1981 lithograph, Vermillion Enigma, is a testament to his continued exploration of colour and form. This piece features bold, dynamic strokes of vermillion against a fluid, contrasting background, exemplifying Jenkins' ability to employ lithographic techniques to achieve a similar fluidity and vibrancy as in his paintings. His prints, like his paintings, are imbued with a sense of trascience, showcasing his versatility as an artist.
Throughout his career, Jenkins' art was exhibited in prestigious institutions internationally. His works found resonance through solo exhibitions in galleries and museums, including the Whitney Museum of American Art and the Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris. This widespread appreciation for Jenkins' art was a testament to his ability to evoke a profound sensory and emotional response.