Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by John Baldessari, ink, 1997
Untitled, by John Baldessari, ink, 1997

Untitled is an ink painting by the Contemporary Realist artist John Baldessari. It dates from 1997 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Untitled is a 1997 painting by John Baldessari, an American artist known for exploring multiple mediums and conceptual themes. The work combines ink jet printing and synthetic polymer paint on canvas.

Subject & Meaning

The painting features a plain gray background, a centered silver paperclip near the top, and the bold black word 'AND' at the bottom. The simplicity of the composition invites viewers to consider the significance of the everyday objects presented.

Technique & Style

Baldessari employed a mix of ink jet printing and synthetic polymer paint to create the work, reflecting his experimental approach to art-making and incorporation of various mediums.

Context

Untitled is associated with the contemporary realism movement and reflects Baldessari's practice of using simple, everyday objects to prompt reflection and inquiry.

Untitled
Untitled, Robert Rauschenberg

Artist & collection

Portrait of John Baldessari

Artist

John Baldessari

John Anthony Baldessari (June 17, 1931 – January 2, 2020) was an American conceptual artist known for his work featuring found photography and appropriated images.

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

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Untitled?

Untitled was painted by John Baldessari in 1997.

Where can I see Untitled?

Untitled is held by Museum of Modern Art.

What movement is Untitled?

Untitled is associated with Contemporary Realism.