Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Toshiko Okanoue, 1953
Untitled, by Toshiko Okanoue, 1953

Untitled is a drawing by Toshiko Okanoue. It dates from 1953 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Untitled, a 1953 drawing by Toshiko Okanoue, combines cut-and-pasted printed papers on printed paper to create a surreal scene. The work is part of The Museum of Modern Art's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The artwork depicts a disjointed street scene with a woman floating above, holding a phone, while a suited man rushes below and another woman waves from a window. The composition's dreamlike quality stems from its juxtaposition of disparate elements.

Technique & Style

Okanoue's technique involves assembling cut-out photos with drawn elements, resulting in a visually striking, hybrid form that blurs the line between reality and fantasy.

History & Provenance

Created in 1953, the piece is now held in the collection of The Museum of Modern Art, though its history prior to acquisition is not detailed here.

Context

While specific contextual influences are not provided, the work's old-fashioned architectural details (lamps, church steeple with a clock) contrast with modern elements (telephone), suggesting a commentary on transitional times.

Legacy

Insufficient information is provided to assess the work's broader impact or legacy within Okanoue's oeuvre or the broader art historical context.

Untitled
Untitled, Keiichi Tanaami

Artist & collection

Artist

Toshiko Okanoue

Toshiko Okanoue is a Japanese artist associated with the Japanese avant-garde art world of the 1950s and best known for her Surrealist photo collages.

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 Toshiko Okanoue in 1953.

Where can I see Untitled?

Untitled is held by Museum of Modern Art.