Exhibitionary Practice of Wassily Kandinsky and Jackson Pollock from the Comparative Perspective

This comparative study investigates the practice of solo exhibitions of Wassily Kandinsky and Jackson Pollock. Initially, it examines the two artists’ biographies, artwork styles, influences, criticisms, and reviews. On this basis, it provides the necessary context for the remaining debate, in which it explores its core question on similarities and differences concerning their exhibitionary activity from the start to date according to three main analytical units, namely, geographical location, type of venue, and exhibition title. Additionally, it also relates these patterns to the framework of contemporary cultural diplomacy players, discusses their role in the exhibition-making processes and relates it to both artists’ stances towards materialistic values. The study collected and comparatively analysed a variety of archival and present-day documentary and other sources, such as exhibition catalogues and press releases, monographs including the two artists’ interviews, statements, writings, etc., scholarly and newspaper articles, blogs, relevant websites, etc. Along these lines, it provides unique comparative insights on the exhibitionary practice of the two selected artists from both the historical and present-day viewpoint, opens up new possibilities for comparative research and, as such, contributes to the advancement of knowledge and the international exchange of ideas in this field.