Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Paul Thek, acrylic, 1988
Untitled, by Paul Thek, acrylic, 1988

Untitled is an acrylic drawing by Paul Thek. It dates from 1988 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Untitled is a 1988 acrylic drawing on newspaper by Paul Thek, part of The Museum of Modern Art's collection. Characterized by a predominantly blue-green palette, the work combines layered visual elements and handwritten text.

Subject & Meaning

The central inscription, 'the soul is the need for the spirit', conveys a philosophical or introspective theme, inviting reflection on the relationship between soul and spirit.

Technique & Style

Thek applied acrylic paint over a newspaper base, incorporating the underlying text's texture and depth. The contrast between vibrant hues and the organic, layered substrate creates a distinctive visual tension.

History & Provenance

Created in 1988, the work is now held in the permanent collection of The Museum of Modern Art, New York.

Context

This piece reflects Thek's experimental approach, blending everyday materials (newspaper) with expressive painting and personal, contemplative messaging.

Artist & collection

Artist

Paul Thek

Paul Thek was an American painter, sculptor and installation artist. Thek was active in both the United States and Europe, exhibiting several installations and sculptural works over the course of his life. Posthumously,…

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Museum of Modern Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.