Untitled
Oil on canvas
12 x 12 in
Two columns composed by horizontal white lines, emerge from a dark background, recalling the shape of an open book. But here, no message: only the vibration of the hand-drawn lines between them. The use of such an abstract writing, coupled with that of gold leaf, can evoke a medieval manuscript.
This monastic dimension would then resonate with Agnes Martin’s interest in Eastern philosophies, as well as with her attraction to secluded places such as the New Mexico desert. Untitled then appears as an open book which calls more to contemplation than to reading. It also has several characteristics typical of Agnes Martin’s work in the 1960s: square format, minimalist aesthetic, "grid" composition and repetition of irregularly drawn lines.
Untitled was shown for the first time by Pinault Collection in 2007 during the "Post-Pop" exhibition at Palazzo Grassi.
