Artwork
Untitled
Untitled is an acrylic painting by the Conceptual Art artist On Kawara. It dates from 1979 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.
About this work
This painting is just a black background with white text that reads "DEC.12.1979." The letters are bold and simple, standing out clearly against the dark canvas. There’s nothing else—no people, no scenery, just the date.
The artist used this style to mark the exact day the painting was made. It’s like a quiet reminder of time passing.
Check out On Kawara to see more work like this.
Overview
Untitled is a 1979 acrylic painting on canvas by Japanese conceptual artist On Kawara, characterized by a black background with bold, white text reading 'DEC.12.1979'. The work is part of The Museum of Modern Art's collection.
Subject & Meaning
The painting's subject is the specific date of its creation, 'DEC.12.1979', conveyed through stark, simple typography. This emphasizes the passage of time, a recurring theme in Kawara's practice, where the artwork serves as a temporal marker.
Technique & Style
Kawara employed a minimalist approach, using bold, white font on a dark canvas to ensure clarity and immediacy. The absence of additional elements heightens the focus on the date, underscoring the conceptual intent.
History & Provenance
Created in 1979, 'Untitled' is now held in the collection of The Museum of Modern Art. Kawara, based in New York City from 1965 until his death in 2014, was a prominent figure in conceptual art, participating in notable exhibitions like the 1976 Venice Biennale.
Artist & collection
Artist
On Kawara (河原温, Kawara On; January 2, 1933 – July 10, 2014) was a Japanese conceptual artist who lived in SoHo, New York City, from 1965 until his death.
