Wed, Nov 17 2010 The idiosyncratic working methods of Willem de
Kooning have long engendered speculation among conservators and
art historians based on visual inspection and anecdotal
accounts, rather than rigorous technical analysis. The
Hirshhorn’s Chief Conservator, Dr. Susan Lake, separates fact
from fiction in this discussion of the artist’s work and his
exploitation of materials. She draws on her recently published
book Willem de Kooning: The Artist’s Materials, the first
systematic study of the painter’s creative process that uses
comprehensive scientific examination of his pigments, binders,
and supports to inform art historical interpretations. Length:
49:25 | Download