Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Donald Judd, graphite, 1965
Untitled, by Donald Judd, graphite, 1965

Untitled is a graphite drawing by Donald Judd. It dates from 1965 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Untitled (1965) is a drawing by Donald Judd, a key figure in the minimalist movement. Executed in felt-tip pen and pencil on paper, the work explores geometric form and spatial relationships.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts two rectangular shapes in a tilted arrangement, one positioned below the other. This composition reflects Judd's interest in the autonomy of forms and their democratic presentation, free from traditional hierarchical structures.

Technique & Style

Characterized by clean, precise lines, the drawing also features handwritten notations, including numbers (e.g., 50, 37, 22) and material lists (e.g., 'hot-rolled steel', 'painted nylon'), suggesting a functional or preparatory intent.

History & Provenance

Untitled is part of The Museum of Modern Art's collection, highlighting its significance within Judd's oeuvre and the broader minimalist canon.

Context

This drawing exemplifies Judd's transitional practice between two-dimensional conceptualization and the creation of three-dimensional sculptures, using simple shapes to explore spatial dynamics.

Legacy

The work informs Judd's subsequent sculptural practice, where sketches like Untitled were translated into physical, spatially aware installations, furthering the minimalist aesthetic.

Artist & collection

Artist

Donald Judd

Donald Clarence Judd (June 3, 1928 – February 12, 1994) was an American artist associated with minimalism.

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