Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Maria Helena Vieira da Silva, oil, 1950
Untitled, by Maria Helena Vieira da Silva, oil, 1950

Untitled is an oil painting by the Abstract Expressionist artist Maria Helena Vieira da Silva. It dates from 1950 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Untitled is a 1950 oil-on-canvas painting by Maria Helena Vieira da Silva, a prominent figure in the Art Informel movement. The work is characterized by its complex, layered composition and abstracted forms.

Subject & Meaning

The painting's subject is ambiguous, evoking either urban landscapes or intricate interior spaces through a dense network of lines and shapes. Its meaning lies in the exploration of space and perspective.

Technique & Style

Vieira da Silva employed a build-up technique, applying multiple layers of paint to create a textured, uneven surface. The palette is predominantly cool, with whites, grays, and soft blues, punctuated by touches of red and yellow.

History & Provenance

The painting is part of The Museum of Modern Art's collection, situating it within a broader context of abstract art.

Context

Vieira da Silva's work spans multiple mediums, including tapestry and stained glass, reflecting her innovative approach to art.

Artist & collection

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