Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Romare Bearden, gouache, 1964
Untitled, by Romare Bearden, gouache, 1964

Untitled is a gouache drawing by Romare Bearden. It dates from 1964 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Romare Bearden's Untitled, created in 1964, is a mixed-media drawing that combines cut-and-pasted printed paper and gouache on board. The work exemplifies Bearden's experimentation with collage as a narrative device.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a figure standing in a dense forest, surrounded by birds and branches. The figure's face is obscured by a patchwork of light and shadow, while their attire is rendered in distinct patterns and textures.

Technique & Style

Bearden employed a range of textures, juxtaposing smooth paper, rough edges, and painted details to create a layered effect. The use of real printed materials and gouache, an opaque watercolor paint, adds depth and visual complexity to the image.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Romare Bearden

Artist

Romare Bearden

Romare Howard Bearden (, ROH-mə-ree) (September 2, 1911 – March 12, 1988) was an American artist, author, and songwriter.

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