Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Richard Deacon, graphite, 1990
Untitled, by Richard Deacon, graphite, 1990

Untitled is a graphite drawing by Richard Deacon. It dates from 1990 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Untitled, a 1990 drawing by Richard Deacon, is a pencil-on-paper work featuring two loosely rendered ovals, one contained within the other, characterized by light, sketchy lines on a blank background.

Subject & Meaning

The subject appears to be a playful exploration of geometric forms, with the simplistic, unrefined execution potentially commenting on the nature of drafting or the absurdity of shape relationships.

Technique & Style

Deacon's technique here emphasizes spontaneity and minimalism, using only pencil outlines without shading or color, evoking a sense of immediacy or a preliminary sketch.

History & Provenance

Created in 1990, the work is part of The Museum of Modern Art's collection, though its specific exhibition history or the artist's intentions behind the piece are not detailed here.

Context

While the artist's broader oeuvre might offer more context, this piece stands as an example of late 20th-century minimalist and conceptual drawing practices, valuing idea over finish.

Legacy

The work's influence or reception is not prominently noted, suggesting it may be more characteristic of Deacon's exploratory practice than a landmark piece in his or the broader artistic canon.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Richard Deacon

Artist

Richard Deacon

Richard Deacon (b. 1949) was a British artist, born in Bangor.

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