Artwork
Untitled
Untitled is an ink print by Marvin Israel. It dates from 1968 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.
About this work
The person’s arms are raised, and the whole shape looks like it’s cut out and floating.
This image shows a simple, flat design of a person’s face and shoulders. The face is outlined in blue, with a red mouth and blue dots scattered around it. The background is a light tan with small red and blue dots. The person’s arms are raised, and the whole shape looks like it’s cut out and floating.
The artist used bold outlines and dots to create a clean, graphic look. The signature reads *"Marvin Israel"* with the date *"M/68"*—likely 1968.
Look up Marvin Israel for more of his bold, minimalist prints.
Overview
Untitled is a 1968 screenprint by American artist Marvin Israel, part of a portfolio of eight works. Characterized by bold outlines and dot patterns, the piece features a simplified, floating figure against a textured background.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts a face and shoulders in profile, with raised arms, set against a light tan background dotted with red and blue. The image conveys a sense of detachment and potential unease, aligning with Israel’s exploration of tension within isolated forms.
Technique & Style
Israel employed screenprinting to achieve a clean, graphic aesthetic. Bold blue outlines define the figure, while red and blue dots add texture to both the subject and background, creating visual harmony.
History & Provenance
Created in 1968, the work is signed 'Marvin Israel' and dated 'M/68'. Provenance details are not provided, but the piece is representative of Israel’s output during this period.
Context
Untitled reflects Israel’s broader thematic concerns with isolation and subtle unease, often expressed through minimalist, surreal compositions. His work from this era frequently featured abstracted figures in stark, modern settings.
Legacy
As part of Israel’s screenprint portfolio, Untitled contributes to his legacy of bold, minimalist prints that explore psychological depth through simplicity. The work remains characteristic of his modern, surrealistic approach to interior and figure subjects.
Artist & collection
Artist
Marvin Israel (July 3, 1924 – May 7, 1984) was an American artist, photographer, painter, teacher and art director from New York City known for modern/surreal interiors, abstract imagery.
