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Question: Paul Jenkins Biography
Answer: Guiding the Prism
Paul Jenkins (1923–2012) was a Kansas City-born master whose "no-smoke" training was deeply tactile, beginning in a ceramics factory where he watched the mesmerizing way glazes flowed over clay. Educated at the Kansas City Art Institute and the Art Students League in New York under Yasuo Kuniyoshi, Jenkins became a central figure of the New York School, befriending Pollock and Rothko. In the 1950s, he moved to Paris, a move that refined his "Lyrical Abstraction." His signature technique involved pouring liquid pigment—first oils, then primarily acrylics and watercolors—directly onto the canvas or paper, guiding the flow with an ivory knife and physical manipulation of the surface. This process allowed him to create "gem-like veils" of overlapping color without the intervention of a brushstroke. His work is a permanent staple of global institutions, including MoMA, the Whitney, and the Centre Georges Pompidou.
At Herndon Fine Art, we have been a primary source for Paul Jenkins for nearly 40 years. Our collection is a vetted selection of Vetted Consignments (RH code) and Vetted Dealer Networks, focusing on his monumental "Phenomena" acrylics and his rare 1960s watercolors. Because Jenkins’ technique relies on the interaction of light and translucent layers, our vetting process ensures that the "prismatic brilliance" of the pigment remains intact and free from the yellowing or fading that can plague secondary market works. We stand behind every signature with our A+ BBB commitment. |
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Question: What does the title "Phenomena" signify?
Answer: Jenkins believed that his paintings were "remarkably instances" of nature rather than depictions of it. Following his study of Kant and Goethe, he used the prefix "Phenomena" to suggest that the artwork was its own reality. At Herndon Fine Art, we verify these unique titles in your database to ensure the work's provenance is factually grounded in the artist's specific spiritual philosophy. |
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Question: Why did he stop using brushes?
Answer: Jenkins felt that brushes created an "interruption" between his intent and the canvas. By pouring the paint and using an ivory knife to guide it, he could achieve "whisper-thin" layers that mimic the transparency of stained glass. His market is currently experiencing a 2024–2026 peak; while major oils have realized over $168,000, his hand-signed watercolors like Phenomena Seventh or Marshall Eye consistently realize between $4,000 and $25,000 on the secondary market. |
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Question: How do I identify a "Vetted" Paul Jenkins signature?
Answer: Jenkins typically signed his work in a fluid, cursive hand in the lower left or right. Crucially, he almost always signed, titled, and dated the verso (back) of the canvas or paper as well. We use our 40 years of experience to verify these "double-signatures" and any official gallery labels (such as Martha Jackson or Gimpel & Weitzenhoffer) that establish clear provenance. |
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Question: What is the "Phenolic Resin" technique in his work?
Answer: Jenkins was a master of "controlled pouring." He used a large ivory knife to guide liquid acrylic and phenolic resins across the canvas without using a brush. The "transparency" and "veils" of color are what determine a piece's value—the more luminous and clear the layers, the higher the price. |
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Question: How does his "Paris" period compare to his "New York" period?
Answer: His 1950s/60s "Paris" works are often darker and more "dense," while his New York works are more vibrant and open. Most high-end collectors prefer the vibrant "Phenomena" series from the 1970s and 80s, which consistently hit the highest prices at auction. |
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Question: Are his "Watercolors on Paper" considered major works?
Answer: Unlike many artists whose paper works are "secondary," Jenkins’ watercolors (like the Phenomena paper series) are highly respected because they showcase his pure command of pigment and flow. They are excellent entry-level "Blue Chip" investments. |
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Question: How do "Vetted Consignment" and "Vetted Dealer Network" listings differ?
Answer: At Herndon Fine Art, we believe in actual conversation. Vetted Consignments (RH code) are pieces sourced from private estates—often original New York or Paris collectors—that we have physically inspected. Vetted Dealer Network (TAC or AE) listings come from our trusted partners. Regardless of the source, our reputation stands behind every piece. |
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Question: Why should I consult with Herndon Fine Art for a Paul Jenkins purchase?
Answer: Because Jenkins’ watercolors are on paper, they are highly sensitive to "acid-burn" from old mats or UV fading. We use our 40 years of experience to identify these condition issues and ensure the "translucent veils" are as vibrant as the day they were poured. We don't do "shopping cart" sales; we want to talk with you directly to ensure the "spiritual energy" of the piece is perfect for your collection. |
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1. EVERY piece of art receives my personal verification of condition and authentication.
2. I WILL NOT ship artwork that isn't in a condition I would accept into my own collection.
3. An A+ Rating from the Better Business Bureau
***** ALL PRICES are set by each Seller based on their Unique Motivation to Sell ***** We have a low commission structure of only
25% above each Seller's asking price or a $minimum commission. This allows us to provide buyers with the best price, sellers a better opportunity to sell, and still keep the lights on. In almost all cases, artwork is shipped unframed (UNLESS The ARTWORK IS ON CANVAS or 3-DIMENSIONAL), as I need to personally verify the artworks' authenticity and condition. Artwork that is shipped Framed is shipped framed to protect the work during shipping. Framing is considered USED
NOTE: Inventory is continuously changing so view your favorite artists pages often. For information on having your inventory added to our Website, contact us at the address below.
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Every client has different motivations for selling and as such we don't offer pricing on the pieces clients sell
If you are looking for the value of your limited edition artwork -- we have a $50 charge for certificates of value if you provide the title, the number of your piece, and an image of your artwork. Original one-of-a-kind pieces require a formal appraisal. Please see our Appraisal Services page.
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