Artwork
Untitled
Untitled is a watercolor drawing by Roberto Matta. It dates from 1942 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.
About this work
Overview
Created in 1942, *Untitled* is a watercolor and pencil drawing by Roberto Matta, a key figure in 20th-century Surrealism. It is part of a diverse portfolio in The Museum of Modern Art's collection, featuring various mediums and techniques.
Subject & Meaning
The work comprises three prominent, abstracted forms: a purple, face-like blob, a recumbent yellow figure, and a tall, red-and-black structure. These elements, characterized by their intentional disorder, may evoke the subconscious or fantastical themes typical of Surrealism.
Technique & Style
Matta employed watercolor to achieve blurred, bleeding colors, and pencil for sketchy, doodle-like lines. The resultant smudged, wet-appearing textures and loose drawing contribute to the piece's deliberate, chaotic appearance.
History & Provenance
Produced in 1942, *Untitled* is part of a mixed-media portfolio. Its creation coincides with Matta's active period in Surrealist circles in both the Americas and Europe. The work is now held in the collection of The Museum of Modern Art.
Artist & collection
Artist
Roberto Antonio Sebástian Matta-Echaurren (Spanish: ; November 11, 1911 – November 23, 2002), usually known simply as Matta, also as Sebastián Matta or Roberto Matta, was one of Chile's best-known painters and figures…
