Artwork
Untitled

Untitled is an oil painting by the Contemporary Realist artist T.C. Cannon. It dates from 1975 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.
About this work
Overview
Untitled, a 1975 painting by T.C. Cannon, combines acrylic and oil on canvas to create a contemporary realist portrait. As a Native American artist of Kiowa and Caddo descent, Cannon's work integrates cultural heritage with modern artistic practices.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, a man adorned in a purple feathered headdress, black vest, red shirt, and blue sash, sits contemplatively in a wooden chair. His serious expression contrasts with the vibrant surroundings, while the blue scissors in his hands suggest a subtle, introspective moment, potentially alluding to themes of choice or creative agency.
Technique & Style
Cannon employs a blend of acrylic and oil paints to achieve a distinctive visual texture. The composition features bold, clashing colors (red, purple, yellow, orange, green) and geometric patterns (striped chair, circular background motifs), characteristic of his modernist approach to Native American portraiture.
History & Provenance
Created in 1975, Untitled is part of The Museum of Modern Art's collection, reflecting Cannon's influence within the contemporary realism movement and his contributions to 20th-century Native American art.
Context
This work exemplifies Cannon's exploration of portraiture within the broader context of 1970s contemporary realism, while also highlighting his unique blend of cultural identity and artistic innovation.
Legacy
As part of a prominent museum collection, Untitled contributes to the visibility of Native American artistic voices in modern art discourse, underscoring Cannon's lasting impact on the representation of indigenous cultures in contemporary art.
Artist & collection
Artist
Tommy Wayne Cannon (Kiowa/Caddo, September 27, 1946 – May 8, 1978) was an important Native American artist of the 20th century.





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