Jasper Johns’ False Start: A Milestone in Contemporary Art

In 1988, Jasper Johns' False Start made headlines when it fetched $17 million at Sotheby’s auction, signaling the painting's growing significance in contemporary art. Nearly two decades later, in 2006, the artwork was sold for an astonishing $80 million to hedge fund billionaire Kenneth C. Griffin, marking a historic moment for living artists. This sale not only cemented False Start as a coveted masterpiece but also emphasized Johns' status as a pioneering figure in American art.

False Start is a vibrant oil painting measuring 170.8 centimeters in length and 137.2 centimeters in width. Created in 1959, it is one of Johns' most iconic works, celebrated for its use of vivid, clashing colors. Johns’ innovative approach to color is central to the painting’s appeal. He breaks from traditional color theory by randomly applying patches of red, yellow, blue, orange, and gray. Each patch is labeled with a color name, but often the name doesn't match the color—"yellow" might be written in blue, for instance—adding to the painting's sense of visual and conceptual tension.

The lack of a central focus or hierarchy in False Start reflects its roots in abstract expressionism, a movement that emphasizes spontaneous, dynamic creation. Johns, however, builds on this tradition by introducing a sense of structured chaos, where every part of the composition is equally important. His use of colors and labels creates a disorienting experience for viewers, forcing them to confront their assumptions about art, language, and meaning.

In today’s art market, False Start remains one of the most expensive works by a living artist. Its combination of abstract expressionism and conceptual art continues to inspire and challenge, proving that Johns' bold vision was ahead of its time, making him a defining figure in post-war American art.
Jasper Johns’ False Start: A Milestone in Contemporary Art