Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Donald Moffett, oil, 2001
Untitled, by Donald Moffett, oil, 2001

Untitled is an oil drawing by Donald Moffett. It dates from 2001 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Created in 2001, this untitled work by Donald Moffett consists of four oil‑and‑synthetic polymer painted canvases affixed to a single board. The piece is part of the collection of the Museum of Modern Art and is classified as a drawing despite its painted surface.

Technique & Style

The artist applies a smooth, uniform gray pigment to the upper half of each canvas, while the lower half is covered with a lattice of thin, white strokes that mimic the appearance of woven fabric. The lines are deliberately uneven and rough, giving the surface a tactile quality that contrasts with the calm, flat gray above.

Subject & Meaning

The composition juxtaposes a serene, monochrome field with a textured, grid‑like pattern, inviting viewers to consider the relationship between surface simplicity and underlying complexity. The woven motif suggests notions of construction and interconnection without referencing any specific narrative.

History & Provenance

Acquired by the Museum of Modern Art shortly after its completion, the work remains in the museum’s permanent collection. Its inclusion reflects MoMA’s interest in early‑2000s explorations of materiality and the blurring of boundaries between drawing and painting.

Artist & collection

Artist

Donald Moffett

Donald Moffett (b. 1955) was an American artist, born in San Antonio.

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