Meaning:
The quote "Well, I'd say that the beginning of this thing came through with Art of This Century, Peggy Guggenheim's, where she opened this gallery and began showing some things that caused a little talk, amongst a lot of other things" by Lee Krasner, an American abstract expressionist painter and wife of Jackson Pollock, reflects on the significant impact of Peggy Guggenheim's Art of This Century gallery on the art world during the mid-20th century.
Peggy Guggenheim, an influential art collector and patron, opened the Art of This Century gallery in New York City in 1942. The gallery quickly gained attention for its innovative approach to showcasing avant-garde and contemporary art. Guggenheim's vision was to provide a platform for emerging and established artists, and she actively promoted and supported the work of many avant-garde painters and sculptors.
In the quote, Krasner acknowledges the pivotal role of Art of This Century in shaping the art scene of the time. The gallery's exhibitions and programming challenged traditional artistic conventions and pushed boundaries, sparking conversations and debates within the art community. Guggenheim's willingness to display unconventional and controversial works contributed to the gallery's reputation as a hub for cutting-edge art and ideas.
Krasner's reference to "some things that caused a little talk" suggests that the exhibitions at Art of This Century stirred up controversy and intrigue, drawing attention to the gallery and the artists it represented. The quote reflects the excitement and buzz surrounding the gallery's activities and its role in shaping the trajectory of modern art.
Art of This Century played a crucial role in promoting the careers of many prominent artists, including Krasner's husband, Jackson Pollock. Guggenheim's support and promotion of Pollock's work helped establish him as a leading figure in the abstract expressionist movement. The gallery's impact extended beyond its physical space, influencing the broader art world and contributing to the development of new artistic movements and styles.
In addition to its role in promoting avant-garde art, Art of This Century also served as a meeting place for artists, critics, and collectors, fostering a vibrant and dynamic creative atmosphere. The gallery's innovative design, featuring biomorphic forms and unconventional display methods, further emphasized its commitment to presenting art in a bold and unconventional manner.
Overall, Krasner's quote captures the essence of Art of This Century as a groundbreaking and influential institution that revolutionized the art world during a pivotal moment in history. Peggy Guggenheim's visionary approach to curation and her unwavering support for daring and experimental art left an indelible mark on the trajectory of modern and contemporary art. The gallery's legacy continues to resonate, serving as a testament to the power of innovative curatorial practices and the enduring impact of bold artistic visionaries.