Artwork
Untitled
Untitled is a drawing by Paul McCarthy. It dates from 1990 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.
About this work
Overview
Created in 1990, this untitled drawing by Paul McCarthy consists of a black felt‑tip pen rendering on paper. The work is part of the Museum of Modern Art’s collection. Its composition features three rudimentary human figures arranged in a disordered tableau, accompanied by a speech bubble that introduces a fragment of dialogue.
Subject & Meaning
The image depicts three stick‑figure characters: one reclines on the ground, another stands holding an object resembling a lamp or pole, and a third slumps with erratic lines surrounding it. The speech bubble emerging from the prone figure reads, “I’m worried you’ll be…,” suggesting an ambiguous tension or humor that destabilizes the otherwise simple scene.
Technique & Style
McCarthy employs a felt‑tip pen to produce quick, uneven strokes that emphasize spontaneity. The use of stark black ink against white paper highlights the crude, gestural quality of the drawing. Minimalist shapes and loose line work generate a sense of imbalance, while the inclusion of a textual element blurs the boundary between visual and verbal expression.
History & Provenance
The drawing was executed in 1990 and subsequently entered the collection of the Museum of Modern Art, where it remains on display. Its acquisition reflects MoMA’s interest in representing McCarthy’s early drawing practice alongside his later, more elaborate installations and performances.
Artist & collection
