Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Frédéric Bruly Bouabré, graphite, 1992
Untitled, by Frédéric Bruly Bouabré, graphite, 1992

Untitled is a graphite drawing by Frédéric Bruly Bouabré. It dates from 1992 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

The background is plain brown, and the edges of the frame are filled with handwritten text in a mix of languages.

This drawing shows a simple scene inside a framed rectangle. A mug sits on a small table, with a tiny dog or animal curled up underneath. The background is plain brown, and the edges of the frame are filled with handwritten text in a mix of languages.

The text around the frame reads things like *"La Création du Hasard"* and *"Bougie de Préference Fondien Copien."* The date "23-1-1992" is scrawled in the corner, adding a personal touch.

Next, look up Frédéric Bruly Bouabré to see more of his playful, text-filled art.

Overview

Untitled, a 1992 drawing by Frédéric Bruly Bouabré, combines colored pencil, ballpoint pen, and felt-tip pen on board. The work is part of The Museum of Modern Art's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a serene interior scene within a framed rectangle: a mug on a small table and a tiny animal (possibly a dog) curled underneath. Surrounding text in multiple languages adds complexity, with phrases like "La Création du Hasard" and "Bougie de Préference Fondien Copien" introducing themes of chance and personal preference.

Technique & Style

Bouabré's mixed media approach blends colored pencil's subtlety with the precision of ballpoint and felt-tip pens. Handwritten text around the frame's edges, including the date "23-1-1992", enhances the piece's intimate, handwritten quality.

History & Provenance

Created on January 23, 1992, the work is now held in the collection of The Museum of Modern Art, reflecting its recognition within the contemporary art canon.

Context

Characteristic of Bouabré's playful, text-infused style, this work aligns with his broader practice of incorporating written elements to enrich visual narratives.

Artist & collection

Artist

Frédéric Bruly Bouabré

Frédéric Bruly Bouabré (1923–2014) was an Ivorian artist, born in Idibouo-Zépréguhé.

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