Artwork
Untitled
Untitled is a watercolor drawing by Laura Owens. It dates from 2003 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.
About this work
Overview
Untitled (2003) is a mixed-media drawing by Laura Owens, combining cut-and-pasted painted paper, watercolor, and pencil on paper. It is part of The Museum of Modern Art's collection.
Subject & Meaning
The artwork depicts a tree composed of flat, geometric shapes. Thick, dark branches contrast with clusters of soft, yellow and green, round leaves. The abstracted forms prioritize shape and color over realism.
Technique & Style
Owens employed a multi-layered process: cutting and pasting painted paper to form the tree's elements, then enhancing with watercolor. The hand-cut edges of the leaves add a tactile, crafted quality.
History & Provenance
Created in 2003, the work exemplifies Owens' practice of synthesizing diverse artistic techniques and historical references in large-scale compositions. It is now held in the collection of The Museum of Modern Art.
Context
Untitled reflects Owens' emergence from the 1990s Los Angeles art scene, where she explored innovative, hybrid approaches to painting and collage, later influencing her community through both art and her role as a gallery owner.
Artist & collection
Artist
Laura Owens (born 1970) is an American painter, gallery owner and educator. She emerged in the late 1990s from the Los Angeles art scene. She is known for large-scale paintings that combine a variety of art historical…
