Pollock Krasner To Be Honored At Stony Brook Awards

The Pollock-Krasner Foundation, as well as actor-director Ed Harris, who famously portrayed Jackson Pollock in the film “Pollock,” will be honored at the “Stars of Stony Brook Gala 2012” Wednesday, April 25, at Chelsea Piers in Manhattan.

The fundraiser, which benefits Stony Brook’s Pollock-Krasner House and Study Center in Springs and the university’s student scholarship fund, is expected to draw an array of creative heavy hitters.

“This will be one of the most exciting and meaningful events of the year-long celebration marking the 100th anniversary of Pollock’s birth,” wrote Richard L. Gelfond, chief executive officer of IMAX Corporation, chairman of the Stony Brook Foundation Board of Trustees and co-chair with James H. Simons of the Stars of Stony Brook Gala. “With Ed’s passion and star-power, this gala that will not only refocus attention and support for the legacy of this pioneering modern artist but, as always, provide funds to help many students in need realize their academic goals.”

The Pollock-Krasner Foundation was established in 1985 as the legacy of Lee Krasner. The foundation’s mission is to aid artists of recognizable merit worldwide who demonstrate financial need. Since its inception, the foundation has awarded more than 3,600 grants, totaling more than $55.6 million to artists in 72 countries. It has also provided funds for general operations and scholarly programs to the Pollock-Krasner House and Study Center, which was opened in June 1988.

Mr. Harris’s work in the film “Pollock” earned him an Academy Award nomination in the Best Actor category. His involvement with the late painter’s legacy has drawn attention to both Pollock’s and Krasner’s work.

“We are truly honored and privileged to be recognizing Ed Harris and the Pollock-Krasner Foundation at the Stars of Stony Brook Gala,” said Stony Brook President Samuel L. Stanley Jr., M.D. “It is especially motivating that the Pollock-Krasner Foundation has generously offered a $1 million matching gift challenge grant that ensures the preservation of the Pollock-Krasner House and Study Center.”

The Stars of Stony Brook Gala begins with a cocktail reception at 6:30 p.m. at Chelsea Piers, followed by dinner at 7:30 p.m. To reserve tickets or for more information, call (212) 245-6570, ext. 15 or email tamaral@eventassociatesinc.com. For more information about the Pollock-Krasner House, visit pkhouse.org.