Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Elizabeth Peyton, graphite, 2004
Untitled, by Elizabeth Peyton, graphite, 2004

Untitled is a graphite drawing by Elizabeth Peyton. It dates from 2004 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Elizabeth Peyton's 2004 drawing, Untitled, is a colored pencil portrait on paper, currently in the collection of The Museum of Modern Art.

Subject & Meaning

The subject is a person with short red hair, depicted in a contemplative pose, resting their head on one hand while seated sideways. Their attire includes a light-colored sweater with a contrasting darker collar.

Technique & Style

Peyton employed colored pencils to build form and color through layered lines, evoking a sense of depth reminiscent of cross-hatching techniques. The execution balances spontaneity with deliberation.

History & Provenance

Created in 2004, the work is part of The Museum of Modern Art's collection, though specific acquisition details are not provided here.

Context

The mostly blank background, accented with faint lines and a touch of yellow, focuses attention on the subject, characteristic of Peyton's intimate, portrait-focused practice.

Legacy

As a piece by a prominent contemporary artist, it contributes to discussions on contemporary portraiture and the use of traditional media in modern art practices.

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.