Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Raymond Pettibon, ink, 1991
Untitled, by Raymond Pettibon, ink, 1991

Untitled is an ink drawing by Raymond Pettibon. It dates from 1991 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Untitled is a 1991 drawing by American artist Raymond Pettibon, created with ink on colored paper. It depicts a fraught artist at work, surrounded by symbols of his creative process.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing shows an artist standing before an empty easel, holding a brush and palette, with a half-finished vase nearby. Scribbled thoughts and quotes, including his mother's voice, surround him, suggesting inner turmoil and the weight of external expectations.

Technique & Style

Pettibon's use of ink on colored paper results in a raw, sketchy feel, achieved through a mix of quick lines and heavy shading. The loose, expressive style conveys the artist's emotional state.

Context

Pettibon's work often engages with diverse American cultural references. Emerging in the Southern California punk scene, he designed posters and album art for bands, reflecting his connection to the underground art and music culture of the 1980s.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Raymond Pettibon

Artist

Raymond Pettibon

Raymond Pettibon (born Raymond Ginn, June 16, 1957) is an American artist who lives and works in New York City.

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