Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Raymond Pettibon, ink, 1978
Untitled, by Raymond Pettibon, ink, 1978

Untitled is an ink print by Raymond Pettibon. It dates from 1978 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Untitled is a 1978 artist's book by Raymond Pettibon, featuring a lithograph print. It is an early example of the artist's work, which blends diverse cultural references.

Subject & Meaning

The lithograph depicts a chaotic street scene with a fight, set against a backdrop of a building and a moonlit sky. The image is headed by the bold text 'CAPTIVE CHAINS' and followed by a row of small portraits with names, evoking a cast list or credits page.

Technique & Style

The work combines bold action with a quiet, documentary feel, recalling the style of comic book covers. Pettibon's use of lithography allows for a mix of text and image, creating a visually striking composition.

History & Provenance

Produced in 1978, Untitled is part of Pettibon's early output, associated with the southern California punk rock scene. The artist's book is now held in The Museum of Modern Art's collection.

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.