Artwork
Untitled
Untitled is an ink drawing by Hannah Wilke. It dates from 1978 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.
About this work
Overview
Created in 1978, this untitled drawing by Hannah Wilke consists of sepia ink applied to paper. The work is part of the collection at the Museum of Modern Art, where it is displayed as an example of the artist’s early drawing practice.
Subject & Meaning
The composition consists of a handful of loosely rendered flowers. Rendered in sweeping, wavy lines, the forms are stylized rather than naturalistic, suggesting a gesture of observation rather than a detailed study.
Technique & Style
Wilke employs a sketchy approach, using quick, uneven strokes to suggest petals and stems. The sepia tone, reminiscent of tea stains, gives the drawing a muted, archival quality, while the lack of fine detail emphasizes the immediacy of the gesture.
History & Provenance
The piece entered the Museum of Modern Art’s holdings after being acquired from the artist’s estate. It has remained in the museum’s collection since its acquisition, serving as a reference point for Wilke’s broader body of work.
Context
Produced during a period when Wilke was exploring feminist themes through performance and sculpture, this drawing reflects her interest in everyday objects and the body, distilled here into a simple botanical motif.
Artist & collection
Artist
Hannah Wilke (born Arlene Hannah Butter; was an American painter, sculptor, photographer, video artist and performance artist. Her work is known for exploring issues of feminism, sexuality and femininity.
