Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Ralph Lemon, watercolor, 2023
Untitled, by Ralph Lemon, watercolor, 2023

Untitled is a watercolor drawing by Ralph Lemon. It dates from 2023 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Created in 2023, this untitled work by Ralph Lemon forms part of a thirteen‑piece series of drawings held in the Museum of Modern Art’s collection. Executed on paper, the piece combines acrylic, ink, watercolor, gouache, crayon, colored pencil, glitter and graphite, resulting in a densely layered surface that invites close inspection.

Subject & Meaning

The composition assembles a multitude of miniature vignettes—figures in conversation, abstracted architectural forms, and whimsical creatures—interspersed with handwritten fragments such as “MUD” and “SPOONFUL.” The juxtaposition of recognizable scenes with cryptic text creates a visual diary that balances narrative suggestion with open‑ended interpretation.

Technique & Style

Lemon employs an eclectic mix of media, layering washes of watercolor and gouache beneath bold acrylic strokes, then adding crayon, colored pencil and graphite details. Black outlines define many elements, while scattered glitter particles catch light, adding a tactile sparkle. The overall effect resembles a collage of spontaneous sketches compiled over time.

History & Provenance

The drawing was produced as part of Lemon’s ongoing series of thirteen works, each exploring similar compositional strategies. After its completion, the piece entered the Museum of Modern Art’s collection, where it remains on view as an example of the artist’s interdisciplinary approach to drawing and mixed media.

Artist & collection

Artist

Ralph Lemon

Ralph Lemon was an American artist.

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