Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Elizabeth McFadden, paint, 1955
Untitled, by Elizabeth McFadden, paint, 1955

Untitled is a paint drawing by Elizabeth McFadden. It dates from 1955 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Untitled, a mixed-media drawing by Elizabeth McFadden from 1955, combines disparate materials and forms in a composition of geometric shapes and figurative elements, set against a pale blue background.

Subject & Meaning

The work features abstracted geometric shapes (brown rectangle, yellow rectangle, blue stripe) alongside a representational bird drawing and a stylized orange curtain, suggesting a juxtaposition of abstract and figurative elements without clear narrative intent.

Technique & Style

McFadden's technique involves assemblage of unconventional materials: fabric, painted metallic-surfaced paper, and corrugated cardboard, resulting in uneven, patchwork-like textures that add depth to the flat, rough shapes.

History & Provenance

Created in 1955, the work is part of The Museum of Modern Art's collection, indicating its recognition within the mid-20th-century art historical context.

Context

While specific contextual influences are not immediately apparent from the work alone, its materials and compositional style reflect the experimental spirit of early to mid-20th-century avant-garde practices.

Legacy

As part of MoMA's collection, 'Untitled' contributes to the institutional narrative of mid-century artistic innovation, though its broader impact or influence on subsequent art movements is not explicitly defined by the available information.

Artist & collection

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