Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Bill Bollinger, graphite, 1970
Untitled, by Bill Bollinger, graphite, 1970

Untitled is a graphite drawing by Bill Bollinger. It dates from 1970 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Untitled is a 1970 drawing by Bill Bollinger, executed in crayon, pencil, and ink on transparentized paper. Currently, it is part of The Museum of Modern Art's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a simple, crumpled red cup with two straight, upright writing instruments (pencils or pens) inserted into it, set against a plain light-beige background. The composition's simplicity and everyday subject matter suggest an exploration of mundane objects.

Technique & Style

Bollinger employed basic geometric shapes and a limited color palette to create a sketch-like appearance. The use of transparentized paper enhances the vibrancy of the colors, particularly the red cup.

History & Provenance

Created in 1970, the work is now held in the permanent collection of The Museum of Modern Art, though its acquisition history is not detailed here.

Context

This piece reflects Bollinger's interest in ordinary objects, potentially aligning with broader artistic movements of the time that emphasized the everyday. For more context, see the artist's broader oeuvre.

Legacy

As part of MoMA's collection, 'Untitled' contributes to the institutional recognition of Bollinger's work, though its specific influence or impact on subsequent art practices is not explicitly outlined here.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Bill Bollinger

Artist

Bill Bollinger

Bill Bollinger was an American artist. In the late 1960s, he was one of the foremost sculptors of his time, routinely mentioned in the same breath as the likes of Bruce Nauman, Robert Smithson, Eva Hesse and Richard…

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Museum of Modern Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.