Artwork
Untitled
Untitled is an ink print by Marisol. It dates from 1969 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.
About this work
Overview
Created in 1969, this black‑and‑white etching by Marisol depicts a nude figure in an expansive, contorted pose. The work is part of the permanent collection of The Museum of Art and exemplifies the artist’s printmaking practice during her New York period.
Subject & Meaning
The central figure is shown with the head thrown back, arms lifted and legs stretched outward, forming a dynamic, almost theatrical composition. The stark contrast between the deep shadows of the body and the off‑white ground emphasizes the physical tension and vulnerability inherent in the pose.
Technique & Style
Executed through traditional etching, the image relies on a gradation of tones from rich black to light gray, achieved by varied line work and acid‑etched textures. The tactile quality of the shading gives the figure a three‑dimensional presence despite the flat surface of the print.
History & Provenance
Marisol, born in Paris in 1930 to Venezuelan parents, relocated to New York where she produced this piece while actively working as a sculptor. The etching entered The Museum of Art’s collection after being acquired from a mid‑1990s exhibition of her work.
Context
By the late 1960s Marisol had already gained recognition for her sculptural installations, yet she continued to explore two‑dimensional media. This print reflects the period’s broader interest in bodily expression and the experimental use of print techniques among contemporary artists.
Artist & collection
Artist
Marisol Escobar (May 22, 1930 – April 30, 2016), otherwise known simply as Marisol, was a Venezuelan-American sculptor born in Paris, who lived and worked in New York City.
