Artwork
Untitled
Untitled is a graphite print by Romare Bearden. It dates from 1975 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.
About this work
Overview
Untitled, a 1975 monotype with pencil additions by Romare Bearden, depicts two musicians in a loose, expressive environment. The piece combines printmaking with manual drawing elements.
Subject & Meaning
The artwork shows two figures engaged in music-making: one standing with a guitar, the other seated with a saxophone. This scene reflects Bearden’s broader humanist themes, emphasizing shared creative activity.
Technique & Style
Bearden employed a monotype as the base, characterized by thick, uneven brushstrokes and a blurry, expressive background with blue and white splashes. Pencil additions refine details. The composition features stippling-like techniques, with tiny dots and marks building up textures, such as the guitar’s surface and the figures’ clothing, creating a layered, rough appearance.
History & Provenance
Created in 1975, Untitled is part of The Museum of Modern Art’s collection. Bearden, an American artist with a diverse practice, drew from his experiences in the US and Paris.
Context
Bearden’s work evolved from depicting the American South to exploring universal human themes. Untitled sits within this later, more inclusive period of his career, reflecting his interest in capturing everyday, collaborative moments.
Legacy
As part of Bearden’s oeuvre, Untitled contributes to his reputation for innovative, expressive works across media, influencing subsequent generations of artists in both technique and thematic approach.
Artist & collection
Artist
Romare Howard Bearden (, ROH-mə-ree) (September 2, 1911 – March 12, 1988) was an American artist, author, and songwriter.
