Artwork
Untitled
Untitled is an acrylic painting by the Contemporary Abstract artist On Kawara. It dates from 2006 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.
About this work
This work is part of an artist’s long-running series where they painted the date of each day they worked.
This is a black canvas with white block letters spelling out "5 JUIN 2006." The text is centered, clean, and stands out against the dark background. No other shapes or colors appear, just the date and month in French.
This work is part of an artist’s long-running series where they painted the date of each day they worked. The simplicity makes you focus on the idea behind it.
Check out On Kawara to see more of his date paintings.
Overview
On Kawara's 'Untitled' is a 2006 acrylic painting on canvas, featuring a simple yet striking composition. It is part of the artist's extensive 'Today Series', which documents the dates of his working days.
Subject & Meaning
The work displays the date '5 JUIN 2006' in white block letters against a black background, conveying a sense of stark minimalism. The use of French for the month adds a touch of cultural specificity to the otherwise universal concept of recording time.
Technique & Style
The painting exemplifies Kawara's characteristic style within the 'Today Series', where the date is presented in a clear and centered manner, devoid of additional embellishments or colors. This straightforward approach underscores the conceptual focus of the work.
History & Provenance
'Untitled' is held in the collection of The Museum of Modern Art, a testament to its significance within Kawara's oeuvre and the broader contemporary art landscape. Kawara, who was active in New York City from 1965 until his death in 2014, participated in numerous exhibitions, including the 1976 Venice Biennale.
Artist & collection
Artist
On Kawara (河原温, Kawara On; January 2, 1933 – July 10, 2014) was a Japanese conceptual artist who lived in SoHo, New York City, from 1965 until his death.
