By FRANCESCA MAURO

Jackson Pollock's most recognized paintings, the "poured paintings," feature deliberately thrown and dripped paint. However, Pollock, like many abstract expressionists, began with representational painting and evolved to works of complete abstraction. Stenographic Figure marks a milestone in Pollock's career. Made five years before Pollock began his "poured paintings," this piece strikes a balance between representational and abstract painting. 

The painting features two figures, though its title suggests just one. Both, while identifiable as humans, are highly distorted and drawn as stick figures. The calligraphic markings that overlay the painting are reminiscent of a stenographer's hurried yet intentional shorthand. The cryptic markings appear to be the forerunners to the choreographed splashes that covered Pollock's later canvasses. 

Pollock gravitated towards dark and somber tones throughout his career. However, Stenographic Figure, painted by Pollock in 1942, features an uncharacteristically bright palette. Many attribute this airiness to the beginning of Pollock's relationship with painter Lee Krasner and a newfound contentment with life. Additionally, this piece lacks the sense of chaos reflected in much of Pollock's work. Though the calligraphic marks clutter the surface, Stenographic Figure's relatively simple composition brings a heightened feeling of serenity in comparison to much of Pollock's other work.