Jackson Pollock, one of the most influential abstract expressionist painters, was famous for his bold, chaotic "drip" technique. But what really set him apart was his innovative use of unusual materials and methods, creating a style that turned the art world on its head.

Dripping Paint, Not Brushing It
Pollock didn’t just use a brush—he dripped paint straight onto the canvas, creating an explosion of movement and energy. He would often lay his canvas flat on the floor and then pour, flick, and fling paint using sticks, hardened brushes, or even his hands. This revolutionary technique gave his works a raw, dynamic quality that was unlike anything people had seen before.

House Paint, Sand, and Glass
Instead of traditional artist's paints, Pollock would often use ordinary house paint. It was cheap, fluid, and perfect for his style. But that wasn’t all—he experimented with unconventional materials like sand, glass shards, and even cigarette butts, embedding them into his paintings to create texture and depth. His most famous works, like No. 5, 1948 and Autumn Rhythm (Number 30), are masterpieces of layered color and materials.

Action Painting
Pollock's process was often described as “action painting.” He would move around the canvas in a dance-like motion, pouring and splashing paint in what appeared to be a chaotic frenzy, but in reality, it was a deeply instinctive and controlled act. This physical engagement with the canvas is what made his art feel so alive—each painting is a reflection of the energy and emotion he poured into it.

Inspiration from Native American Sand Art
Pollock's fascination with using unconventional materials and methods was partly inspired by Native American sand art. In sand painting, artists use natural materials to create temporary, symbolic artworks. Pollock took this idea of creating something expressive and immediate, turning it into a permanent visual explosion on his canvas.