Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Chuck Close, oil, 1989
Untitled, by Chuck Close, oil, 1989

Untitled is an oil painting by Chuck Close. It dates from 1989 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Untitled is a large-scale oil on canvas painting created by Chuck Close in 1989. It is a highly detailed portrait that exemplifies the artist's signature style.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a man with dark hair and a serious expression, with the artist focusing on capturing the subtleties of his facial features against a understated background.

Technique & Style

The work showcases Close's photorealist technique, characterized by precise representation and visible brushstrokes that convey a sense of energy. A range of colors, from warm earth tones to cool blues and greens, adds depth and texture to the portrait.

History & Provenance

Close created this painting after a spinal injury in 1988, which led to adaptations in his working methods. The painting is now part of The Museum of Modern Art's collection.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Chuck Close

Artist

Chuck Close

Charles Thomas Close (July 5, 1940 – August 19, 2021) was an American painter, visual artist, and photographer who made massive-scale photorealist and abstract portraits of himself and others.

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