Artwork
Untitled
Untitled is a watercolor drawing by Erik Ortvad. It dates from 1945 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.
About this work
Overview
Untitled is a 1945 watercolor on paper by Erik Ortvad, a Danish artist associated with the COBRA movement. The work is part of The Museum of Modern Art's collection.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing depicts two abstract figures seated together, surrounded by vibrant colors and shapes. The forms are ambiguous, with one figure featuring yellow and blue hues, and the other pink and green tones with a red hat.
Technique & Style
Ortvad's loose, expressive brushstrokes and bold color palette create a dreamlike atmosphere. The watercolor technique allows for a sense of spontaneity and playfulness, with colors and shapes interacting in a non-representational manner.
History & Provenance
Created during Ortvad's exile in Sweden, where he fled due to his communist sympathies and Jewish wife during World War II. The work predates his involvement with the COBRA movement, which he co-founded in 1948.
Artist & collection
Artist
Erik Ortvad (18 June 1917 in Copenhagen – 29 February 2008 in Kvänjarp) was a painter and a creator of many drawings.
