Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Elizabeth Peyton, watercolor, 1997
Untitled, by Elizabeth Peyton, watercolor, 1997

Untitled is a watercolor drawing by Elizabeth Peyton. It dates from 1997 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Untitled is a 1997 watercolor portrait by Elizabeth Peyton, currently in the collection of The Museum of Modern Art. The work depicts a seated figure distinguished by dark attire and vibrant green sunglasses.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, rendered with a subtle, enigmatic smile and red lips, maintains an air of understated calm. The simplicity of the face contrasts with the bold, eye-catching sunglasses, suggesting a balance between reserve and expressiveness.

Technique & Style

Peyton employed loose, rapid brushstrokes, resulting in a mix of flat and slightly blurred areas, evoking the immediacy of a freshly executed sketch. The watercolor technique allows for thin, layered applications of paint, capturing the interplay of light and shadow.

History & Provenance

Created in 1997, the piece is part of The Museum of Modern Art's collection, reflecting Peyton's contribution to contemporary portraiture during that period.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Elizabeth Peyton

Artist

Elizabeth Peyton

Elizabeth Joy Peyton is an American contemporary artist working primarily in painting, drawing, and printmaking.

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