Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Takehito Koganezawa, graphite, 1999
Untitled, by Takehito Koganezawa, graphite, 1999

Untitled is a graphite drawing by Takehito Koganezawa. It dates from 1999 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Takehito Koganezawa’s 1999 drawing, titled Untitled, is executed in colored pencil on notebook paper and is part of the Museum of Modern Art’s collection. The work presents a compact, sketch‑like composition that balances whimsical elements with a restrained line quality.

Subject & Meaning

The image depicts a side view of a figure with vivid pink hair, upon whose head a small yellow truck erupts flames that appear to merge with the hair. A solitary green bucket containing a wooden stick rests to the left, creating a juxtaposition of everyday objects and surreal fire, while the figure’s expression remains composed.

Technique & Style

Koganezawa employs loose, rapid lines characteristic of sketching, allowing the colored pencil to convey both bold hues and delicate shading. The immediacy of the marks suggests a spontaneous approach, while the bright palette—particularly the pink hair and fiery yellow truck—enhances the work’s playful yet unsettling atmosphere.

History & Provenance

Created in 1999, the drawing entered the Museum of Modern Art’s holdings, where it remains on display. Its acquisition reflects MoMA’s interest in contemporary Japanese drawing practices and the artist’s exploration of narrative ambiguity through simple media.

Artist & collection

Artist

Takehito Koganezawa

Takehito Koganezawa (b. 1974) was a Japanese artist, born in Tokyo.

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