Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Raymond Pettibon, ink, 29
Untitled, by Raymond Pettibon, ink, 29

Untitled is an ink print by Raymond Pettibon. It dates from 29 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Untitled is an offset lithograph print by American artist Raymond Pettibon, created in 1989, not 1929 as previously stated, given the artist's emergence in the 1980s. The work features a dramatic scene with three stick-figure characters and textual elements, characteristic of Pettibon's eclectic style.

Subject & Meaning

29 JUNE", suggesting a promotion for a punk rock event, aligning with Pettibon's association with the genre.

The print depicts a tense interaction between three figures: a woman in a top hat and torn dress wielding a knife, a suited man also holding a knife, and a third man with raised arms, apparently yelling. The scene is set against a backdrop announcing a event at "BLACK FLAG Hong Kong Cafe" on "FRI. 29 JUNE", suggesting a promotion for a punk rock event, aligning with Pettibon's association with the genre.

Technique & Style

Executed in offset lithography, the piece showcases Pettibon's signature rough, sketchy drawing style, resembling a quick sketch. This aesthetic is consistent with his work designing posters and album artwork for punk bands.

History & Provenance

Created during Pettibon's active involvement with the southern California punk rock scene, specifically for an event at the Hong Kong Cafe, the work is now part of The Museum of Modern Art's collection.

Context

Untitled reflects Pettibon's practice of appropriating and combining diverse cultural imagery. However, in this case, the content is more directly tied to his punk rock affiliations, particularly with Black Flag and the SST Records label.

Legacy

As part of Pettibon's early output, Untitled contributes to his reputation as a pivotal figure in the intersection of punk aesthetics and fine art, influencing subsequent generations of artists exploring similar intersections of culture and art.

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.