Who painted Untitled?

Untitled was painted by Jaune Quick-to-See Smith in 1994.

Where can I see Untitled?

Untitled is held by Museum of Modern Art.

Artwork

Untitled

Jaune Quick-to-See Smith , 1994

Untitled is an ink print by Jaune Quick-to-See Smith. It dates from 1994 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Untitled, a 1994 lithograph by Jaune Quick-to-See Smith, is a print artwork held in The Museum of Modern Art's collection. Characterized by simple black silhouettes against a textured, peach-colored background, the piece features two distinct scenes and incorporates surrounding Spanish text.

Subject & Meaning

The lithograph depicts two figures engaged in separate activities: one near a hut with a floating fish, and another holding a pole on uneven terrain. These scenes, paired with the accompanying Spanish narrative about teaching fishing, suggest themes of subsistence, knowledge transfer, and possibly environmental or cultural commentary, viewed through a Native American perspective.

Technique & Style

The print exhibits a distinctive aesthetic with flat, unshaded colors and rough edges. The use of simple black shapes against a pebbly background creates a sense of immediacy and simplicity, while the textured peach ground adds depth. The style is reminiscent of folk art or didactic illustrations, underscoring the instructional theme implied by the text.

History & Provenance

Created in 1994 by Jaune Quick-to-See Smith, an artist of Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, Métis, and Shoshone ancestry, known for her activism and Native-centric artwork. The piece is part of MoMA's collection.

Context

Smith's work, including *Untitled*, is rooted in Indigenous identity, historical oppression, and environmental concerns, offering a Native worldview. The Spanish text may indicate a focus on cross-cultural exchange or the legacy of colonial languages in Native American contexts.

Legacy

As part of Smith's body of work, *Untitled* contributes to the broader recognition of Native American artists addressing social, environmental, and cultural issues. Its presence in MoMA's collection reflects growing institutional acknowledgment of Indigenous art's importance.