Artwork
Untitled
Untitled is a watercolor drawing by William T. Wiley. It dates from 1978 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.
About this work
Overview
Untitled (1978) is a mixed-media drawing by William T. Wiley, combining watercolor, pencil, and colored chalk on paper. Characterized by its loose, expressive execution, the work features a dominant, yet distorted, paintbrush form alongside scattered scribbles and text.
Subject & Meaning
The subject appears to be a stylized, abstracted representation of a paintbrush, juxtaposed with informal, personal annotations ('I love you', 'Humor') and abstract marks, suggesting a blend of artistic introspection and whimsy.
Technique & Style
Wiley employs a spontaneous, expressive technique, with smudged watercolor bristles, uneven pencil scribbles, and blurred colored chalk, evoking a sense of playful experimentation. The overall effect is chaotic, with the brush form being the sole discernible element.
History & Provenance
Created in 1978, the work is part of The Museum of Modern Art's collection, reflecting Wiley's affiliation with the funk art movement, known for its irreverent and unconventional approach to art.
Artist & collection
Artist
William Thomas Wiley (October 21, 1937 – April 25, 2021) was an American artist. His work spanned a broad range of media including drawing, painting, sculpture, film, performance, and pinball. At least some of Wiley's…
