Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Marcel Mariën, ink, 1966
Untitled, by Marcel Mariën, ink, 1966

Untitled is an ink print by Marcel Mariën. It dates from 1966 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Untitled (1966) is a screenprint by Marcel Mariën, a Belgian artist associated with Surrealism and the Situationist movement, presented in a frame designed by the artist.

Subject & Meaning

The work features bold, orange, block letters on a black background, centrally framed in gold. The phrase 'A VENDRE' (French for 'For Sale') conveys a straightforward, ironic message, characteristic of Mariën's penchant for simple yet provocative statements.

Technique & Style

Mariën employed screenprinting to achieve flat, vibrant colors and slightly uneven letter edges, evoking a handmade quality despite the industrial technique. The overall aesthetic is marked by boldness and simplicity.

History & Provenance

Created in 1966, 'Untitled' is now part of The Museum of Modern Art's collection, reflecting Mariën's diverse artistic output alongside his roles as poet, photographer, collagist, filmmaker, publisher, and bookseller.

Context

This work aligns with Mariën's involvement in Surrealist and Situationist movements, which often explored the intersection of art, everyday life, and social commentary, though 'A VENDRE' stands out for its directness.

Legacy

'Untitled' exemplifies Mariën's contribution to avant-garde movements, blending conceptual simplicity with visual boldness, characteristic of his eclectic and provocative artistic trajectory.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Marcel Mariën

Artist

Marcel Mariën

Marcel Mariën (29 April 1920 – 19 September 1993) was a Belgian surrealist (later Situationist), poet, essayist, photographer, collagist, and filmmaker.

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