Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Susan Rothenberg, graphite, 1982
Untitled, by Susan Rothenberg, graphite, 1982

Untitled is a graphite drawing by Susan Rothenberg. It dates from 1982 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

This 1982 pencil drawing on paper by Susan Rothenberg features a simplified, linear representation of a horse, characteristic of the artist's exploration of the balance between abstraction and figuration.

Subject & Meaning

The horse, a recurring motif in Rothenberg's work, is depicted here in a state of dynamic movement, its form reduced to expressive, loose lines that prioritize gestural suggestion over detailed realism.

Technique & Style

The drawing exhibits a rough, spontaneous quality, with dark, uneven pencil strokes, smudges, and a predominantly pale background, reflecting a potentially rapid execution.

History & Provenance

Created during Rothenberg's established period of exploring figuration's boundaries, this work aligns with the 1970s-80s contemporary art movement that re-examined representation, though specific provenance details are not provided.

Context

Emerging from Rothenberg's multidisciplinary background (painting, printmaking, sculpture), this piece reflects her broader artistic inquiry into the interplay between abstract and representational techniques.

Artist & collection

Artist

Susan Rothenberg

Susan Charna Rothenberg (January 20, 1945 – May 18, 2020) was an American contemporary painter, printmaker, sculptor, and draughtswoman.

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