Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Ellsworth Kelly, oil, 1993
Untitled, by Ellsworth Kelly, oil, 1993

Untitled is an oil painting by the Contemporary Abstract artist Ellsworth Kelly. It dates from 1993 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

This 1993 oil on canvas painting by Ellsworth Kelly is a characteristic example of the artist's abstract style. It is a simple composition featuring a bright red square on a white background.

Subject & Meaning

The work consists of a flat, red square with clean, straight edges, devoid of texture or shading, set against a plain white background. The bold color dominates the canvas, creating a striking visual effect.

Technique & Style

Kelly's use of a single, vibrant hue and a straightforward composition reflects his association with hard-edge painting and Color Field painting. The painting's simplicity and emphasis on color and form are hallmarks of his style.

History & Provenance

The painting is part of the collection at The Museum of Modern Art, aligning with the museum's holdings in contemporary abstract art.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Ellsworth Kelly

Artist

Ellsworth Kelly

Ellsworth Kelly (May 31, 1923 – December 27, 2015) was an American painter, sculptor, and printmaker associated with hard-edge painting, Color field painting and 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.