Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by William Anastasi, graphite, 2011
Untitled, by William Anastasi, graphite, 2011

Untitled is a graphite drawing by William Anastasi. It dates from 2011 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Created in 2011, this untitled drawing by William Anastasi is part of the permanent collection of the Museum of Modern Art. Executed with ballpoint pen and pencil on paper, the work occupies a modest sheet yet commands attention through its dense, improvised line work. It exemplifies Anastasi’s interest in process‑driven mark‑making rather than representational imagery.

Technique & Style

The surface is covered in a tangled network of red and gray strokes that intersect, overlap, and fade across the white paper. The lines appear rapidly drawn, forming a restless, almost kinetic field without any discernible shape. Areas of heavier concentration contrast with lighter, more translucent sections, giving the composition an uneven, lived‑in texture.

History & Provenance

Since its creation, the drawing has remained in the Museum of Modern Art’s collection, where it is displayed among works that explore abstraction through drawing. Its acquisition reflects MoMA’s ongoing commitment to documenting contemporary practices that prioritize the act of drawing as a primary artistic inquiry.

Artist & collection

Portrait of William Anastasi

Artist

William Anastasi

William Anastasi was an American visual artist working in a wide range of media including drawing, painting, sculpture, photographic works, and text.

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