Who painted Untitled?

Untitled was painted by Kiki Smith in 1994.

Where can I see Untitled?

Untitled is held by Museum of Modern Art.

Untitled by Kiki Smith (1994) · Meaning & Museum

About this work

Overview

Created in 1994, this untitled work by Kiki Smith combines chromogenic printing with a stamped glass element. The piece is circular, its glass surface bearing a central motif of an eight‑petaled flower whose petals contain fine linear markings and clusters of tiny dots. The glass’s perimeter is smooth with a subtle raised edge, giving the work a tactile presence.

Subject & Meaning

The central floral design, rendered in a stylized eight‑petal form, suggests a symbolic exploration of growth and regeneration. The interior lines and dot clusters within each petal evoke microscopic textures, hinting at cellular structures or the notion of observation, inviting viewers to contemplate the intersection of natural forms and intimate detail.

Technique & Style

Smith employs a hybrid process that merges chromogenic photographic printing with a glass‑stamping technique. The chromogenic print provides color depth, while the glass is impressed with a raised design that captures the flower’s outline and internal markings. This combination produces a flat photographic surface juxtaposed with a subtle three‑dimensional relief.

History & Provenance

The work entered the collection of the Museum of Modern Art, where it remains on view. Acquired shortly after its creation, the piece reflects MoMA’s commitment to acquiring contemporary works that experiment with mixed media and print processes.

Context

Produced during the early 1990s, the piece aligns with Smith’s broader investigation of the body, nature, and materiality. The use of glass as a substrate expands the traditional boundaries of printmaking, situating the work within a period when artists increasingly blended photographic and sculptural techniques.