Artwork
Untitled
Untitled is an ink print by Marlene Dumas. It dates from 1993 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.
About this work
The figure’s face is blurred, and their body looks stretched and a little stiff, with one arm bent at the waist.
This print shows a dark, shadowy figure of a person standing sideways. The background has a light, swirly pattern, almost like lace. The figure’s face is blurred, and their body looks stretched and a little stiff, with one arm bent at the waist.
The title is written in small letters at the bottom: *The girl can’t help it*. The artist signed it with a date—1993—and a number *49* in the corner.
If you like this style, check out Marlene Dumas.
Overview
Untitled is a 1993 print by Marlene Dumas, combining blockprint, lithograph, and hand additions. It is part of The Museum of Modern Art's collection.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts a shadowy figure with a blurred face, set against a light, swirling background. The title 'The girl can’t help it' is inscribed at the bottom, suggesting a narrative or emotional context.
Technique & Style
Dumas employed a mix of printmaking techniques, adding hand details to achieve a distinctive effect. The figure's stretched and stiffened form, along with the blurred face, contributes to the work's expressive character.
Context
Dumas' work often explores themes of identity and human relationships, and this print is consistent with her broader artistic concerns.
Artist & collection
Artist
Marlene Dumas (born 3 August 1953) is a South African artist and painter based in the Netherlands. Dumas currently lives and works in the Netherlands and is one of the country's most prolific artists.
