Artwork
Untitled
Untitled is an ink print by Jack Shadbolt. It dates from 1968 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.
About this work
Overview
Jack Shadbolt’s 1968 screenprint, titled Untitled, forms part of a thirteen‑piece series, one of which includes hand‑applied details. The work is currently in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art and exemplifies the artist’s exploration of color and form through printmaking.
Subject & Meaning
The composition consists of a grid of vivid squares—purples, greens, and blues—arranged irregularly across a dynamic, swirling red field. The juxtaposition of orderly geometric shapes with an expressive, textured background creates a tension between precision and spontaneity, inviting viewers to consider the interplay of structure and chaos.
Technique & Style
Executed by screenprinting, the piece displays flat, saturated hues characteristic of the medium, while the red background bears a scraped, gestural surface that suggests additional manual intervention. This combination of mechanical reproduction and hand‑added texture highlights Shadbolt’s interest in merging reproducible processes with painterly gestures.
History & Provenance
Created in 1968, the print was produced as part of Shadbolt’s larger portfolio of thirteen screenprints, a body of work that reflects his mid‑career experimentation with graphic media. The Museum of Modern Art acquired the piece, where it remains on view as part of their print and drawing collection.
Context
During the late 1960s, Shadbolt was engaging with abstract visual language, aligning with broader trends in North American modernism that emphasized bold color fields and simplified forms. This work situates him within a dialogue between traditional painting and emerging print techniques, illustrating his adaptive approach to contemporary artistic concerns.
Artist & collection
