Artwork
Untitled
Untitled is a graphite drawing by Stephen Antonakos. It dates from 1967 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.
About this work
Overview
Stephen Antonakos’s 1967 drawing, titled Untitled, combines crayon, synthetic polymer paint, and pencil on paper. The work is part of the Museum of Modern Art’s collection. It presents a stark composition of a red, half‑circle arch rendered in dense, parallel strokes, accompanied by a flurry of handwritten notes and a small ruler marked with measurements.
Subject & Meaning
The central motif is a bright red arch formed by overlapping crayon lines, suggesting a constructed or architectural form. Around it, illegible pencil scribbles and a marginal note reading “near for 57 St” hint at a possible site‑specific reference or a working sketch for a larger project, though the exact intent remains ambiguous.
Technique & Style
Antonakos builds the arch by repeatedly applying crayon, creating a layered, textured surface that emphasizes the material’s opacity. The parallel hatching produces a rhythmic visual pulse, while the juxtaposition of synthetic polymer paint and pencil adds contrast between bold color and tentative graphite marks, reflecting a blend of precise drafting and expressive mark‑making.
History & Provenance
Created in 1967, the drawing entered the Museum of Modern Art’s holdings at an unspecified date, becoming part of the institution’s representation of mid‑century experimental drawing. Its acquisition underscores MoMA’s interest in works that document the intersection of design, architecture, and abstract visual research.
Context
During the late 1960s Antonakos explored light, space, and geometric forms, often employing industrial materials. This paper sketch aligns with his broader practice of translating architectural ideas into visual studies, serving as a preparatory document that bridges conceptual planning and the physical realization of his installations.
Artist & collection
Artist
Stephen Antonakos was a Greek-American sculptor most well known for his abstract sculptures often incorporating neon.
