Jackson Pollock in Toronto

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I was invited to play some music at a splashy reception for the Jackson Pollock that rolled into town a couple of weeks ago, the now infamous painting that was purchased for $5 sixteen years ago in sunny California. I had originally approached the Delisle Gallery out in The Beaches and spoke with Amanda, pictured, about the idea of communing musically with the Pollock. She and the staff were so taken with the idea, I ended up spending a wonderful evening on opening night, providing music and having a chance to meet with Teri and her son Joe, who are the custodians for the Pollock while it is on the road.

What to play? That question answered itself in the most unexpected way, as you will read in subsequent posts here. With Pollock’s love of jazz, surely this lingering rendition of Funny Valentine was a good fit.

Security was tight, and good-humoured as well, I might add, as reps for the gallery offered detailed explanations as to why this painting is the real McCoy. Their argument is convincing, and the painting extraordinary, however what will ultimately authenticate the piece will be a confirmed sale for the $50 million asking price, as ironic as that may be.