Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by John Edward Dowell, ink, 1968
Untitled, by John Edward Dowell, ink, 1968

Untitled is an ink print by John Edward Dowell. It dates from 1968 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Untitled, a 1968 print by John Edward Dowell Jr., is characterized by its striking minimalism, featuring a predominantly black field with a faint, pale crescent-like shape in the top right corner.

Subject & Meaning

The subject of *Untitled* is ambiguous, with the subtle, ghostly crescent shape evoking interpretations of a lunar form or a sliver of light, inviting contemplation of its presence within the dark, almost vacant space.

Technique & Style

Dowell employed etching and aquatint techniques to achieve the work's soft, delicate lines and deep, uniform black background, showcasing his mastery of printmaking in conveying subtlety and nuance.

History & Provenance

Created while Dowell was a professor of printmaking at the Tyler School of Art, *Untitled* is now part of The Museum of Modern Art's collection, reflecting its recognition within the contemporary art canon of its time.

Artist & collection

Artist

John Edward Dowell

John Edward Dowell Jr. (born 1941) is an American printmaker, painter, and educator. He was a professor of printmaking at the Tyler School of Art at Temple University in Philadelphia.

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