Artwork
Untitled
Untitled is an oil painting by the Neo Expressionist artist Martin Kippenberger. It dates from 1985 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.
About this work
Overview
Untitled, a 1985 painting by Martin Kippenberger, combines oil and silicone rubber on canvas, characteristic of the artist's eclectic approach to medium and form.
Subject & Meaning
Against a green backdrop, disparate elements—a bicycle, cloud, heart, and scattered words ('WAR', 'NO', 'IS', 'NICE')—coexist, blending familiarity with conceptual complexity, inviting interpretation of their juxtaposition.
Technique & Style
The work embodies Neo-Expressionist tenets through its vibrant, bold color palette and the expressive, possibly spontaneous, integration of abstract shapes and recognizable objects.
History & Provenance
Created in 1985, the painting is part of The Museum of Modern Art's collection, reflecting Kippenberger's prominence among his German contemporaries, including Albert Oehlen and Werner Büttner.
Context
As a leading figure of his generation, Kippenberger's work, including this piece, contributed to the Neo-Expressionist movement's emphasis on emotional intensity and diverse artistic practices.
Legacy
This work contributes to Kippenberger's legacy as a prolific, innovative artist, influencing subsequent generations with his multifaceted output across painting, sculpture, and performance.
Artist & collection
Artist
Martin Kippenberger (25 February 1953 – 7 March 1997) was a German painter, draftsman, photographer, sculptor, installation and performance artist.
