Artwork
Untitled
Untitled is a drawing by David Shaw. It dates from 2004 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.
About this work
Overview
Created in 2004 by artist David Shaw, this untitled drawing resides in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art. Executed with ballpoint pen on paper, the work occupies a substantial surface, defying the modest scale typically associated with the medium. Its presence in a major museum underscores its relevance within contemporary drawing practices.
Subject & Meaning
The composition consists of an intricate network of curving lines rendered in vivid hues of green, pink, blue, and yellow. The overlapping gestures generate a dense, kinetic field that resists representation of recognizable objects, inviting viewers to experience pure visual rhythm and the tension between order and disorder.
Technique & Style
Shaw employs a ballpoint pen—a tool usually reserved for quick sketches—to produce saturated color and continuous line work across a large paper sheet. The pen’s fluidity allows for seamless transitions between hues, while the repetitive, swirling motifs create a sense of movement that blurs the boundary between drawing and abstract painting.
History & Provenance
Since its completion in 2004, the drawing has been part of the Museum of Modern Art’s holdings, acquired through the museum’s contemporary drawing program. Its inclusion reflects the institution’s interest in expanding the definition of drawing beyond traditional media and scales.
Context
During the early 2000s, artists increasingly explored everyday materials to challenge conventional hierarchies of fine art. Shaw’s use of a commonplace ballpoint pen aligns with this trend, positioning the work within a broader dialogue about materiality, accessibility, and the democratization of artistic practice.
Artist & collection
