Artwork
Untitled
Untitled is a graphite drawing by Alex Katz. It dates from 1974 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.
About this work
Overview
Created in 1974, this pencil drawing by Alex Katz is part of the Museum of Modern Art’s collection. Executed on paper, the work measures a modest size and presents a single figure rendered in a restrained palette of grays. Its quiet composition and limited medium reflect Katz’s interest in drawing as an intimate, direct mode of expression.
Subject & Meaning
The image shows a woman wearing a wide-brimmed hat, her short dark hair framing a face with closed eyes and slightly open lips. The pose suggests a moment of introspection, as if the figure is caught in a private, contemplative breath. The subdued expression invites viewers to consider themes of stillness and inner calm.
Technique & Style
Katz employs graphite to build a range of tonal values, from deep shadows on the hat and cheekbones to lighter washes that define the background. The drawing’s soft transitions and delicate line work give the portrait a gentle, almost tactile quality, while the overall flatness of the surface aligns with Katz’s broader minimalist aesthetic.
History & Provenance
The piece entered the Museum of Modern Art’s holdings shortly after its creation, becoming part of the institution’s mid‑20th‑century drawing collection. Its acquisition reflects MoMA’s ongoing effort to document Katz’s prolific output across media, and the work has remained on view in the museum’s drawing galleries since its donation.
Artist & collection
Artist
Alex Katz is an American figurative artist known for his paintings, sculptures, and prints.
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