Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Cecily Brown, oil, 2010
Untitled, by Cecily Brown, oil, 2010

Untitled is an oil painting by the Contemporary Abstract artist Cecily Brown. It dates from 2010 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Untitled, a 2010 oil on canvas painting by Cecily Brown, exemplifies contemporary abstract art. Characterized by thick, uneven layers of paint and expressive brushwork, the piece showcases Brown's unique style.

Subject & Meaning

While the painting's subject is not explicitly defined, its emotional intensity and chaotic brushstrokes suggest an exploration of inner turmoil or intense energy, drawing parallels with the expressive works of both modern abstract painters and Old Masters.

Technique & Style

Brown employs impasto, applying paint in thick, three-dimensional layers, predominantly in red, black, and white, with accents of blue and gray. The brushstrokes range from scribble-like marks to rough slashes, creating a textured, almost tactile surface.

History & Provenance

Created in 2010, *Untitled* is part of The Museum of Modern Art's collection, reflecting its recognition within the contemporary art canon.

Context

Brown's work bridges influences from modernists like Willem de Kooning and Francis Bacon, and the dramatic flair of Old Masters such as Rubens and Goya, situating *Untitled* at the intersection of tradition and contemporary abstraction.

Legacy

As part of Brown's oeuvre, *Untitled* contributes to the broader legacy of contemporary abstract painting, inviting viewers to engage with its textured, emotionally charged landscape.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Cecily Brown

Artist

Cecily Brown

Cecily Brown (born 1969) is a British painter. Her style displays the influence of a variety of contemporary painters, from Willem de Kooning, Francis Bacon and Joan Mitchell, to Old Masters like Rubens, Poussin and…

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