Paul Jenkins (1923-2012) was an influential American painter associated with Abstract Expressionism and the subsequent Color Field movement. Born in Kansas City, Missouri, Jenkins developed an early interest in art, studying at the Kansas City Art Institute before moving to New York, where he became part of the vibrant post-war art scene. His work was deeply influenced by his studies under the Mexican muralist David Alfaro Siqueiros and his exposure to the dynamic energy of Abstract Expressionism.
Jenkins is best known for his innovative technique of pouring paint directly onto the canvas, which he then manipulated by tilting the surface, allowing the paint to flow and blend organically. This method, which he termed "controlled accident," resulted in vibrant, fluid compositions that emphasized the interplay of color, light, and transparency. His works often evoke a sense of movement and transformation, capturing the ephemeral and the sublime.
Throughout his career, Jenkins was also influenced by Eastern philosophy, mysticism, and alchemy, which informed his approach to art as a spiritual and meditative practice. His paintings, with their luminous veils of color and ethereal forms, reflect a quest for transcendence and a deep connection with the forces of nature.
Jenkins's work was widely exhibited, including at the Whitney Museum of American Art and the Guggenheim Museum. His contributions to abstract art, particularly his unique exploration of color and form, have left an enduring legacy, making him a key figure in the evolution of post-war American painting.