Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Giovanni Anselmo, graphite, 1982
Untitled, by Giovanni Anselmo, graphite, 1982

Untitled is a graphite drawing by Giovanni Anselmo. It dates from 1982 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Untitled is a 1982 drawing by Giovanni Anselmo, an Italian artist associated with the Arte Povera movement. It is executed in pencil on printed paper.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a small, tilted rectangle of printed paper with a faint blue and white design, held up by a thin wire against a plain white background. The image explores themes of simplicity and the relationship between materials and their presentation.

Technique & Style

Anselmo used simple pencil lines to render the wire, creating a delicate appearance. The pencil work is characterized by subtle shading, achieved through layered lines that suggest depth and dimensionality.

Context

Anselmo's work often incorporates everyday materials to convey conceptual ideas, reflecting the Arte Povera movement's emphasis on simplicity and the use of humble materials.

Artist & collection

Artist

Giovanni Anselmo

Giovanni Anselmo (5 August 1934 – 18 December 2023) was an Italian artist who emerged after World War II within the art movement called Arte Povera.

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