Black Shapes

1961

Robert Motherwell

Associated Names
Robert Motherwell

Artist, American, 1915 - 1991

The image shows bold black strokes and splatters on a white background in an abstract composition. The dark lines and blotches create a pair of figures sitting back-to-back with fluid shapes extending upwards and to the sides. A dense, horizontal line runs across the upper portion, resembling a horizon. Scattered dots and finer lines give a sense of splattering ink. The artwork conveys an abstract scene with potential resemblances to a bridge or entwined dancers.
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Artwork overview


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Dedalus Foundation, New York; purchased by NGA, 1999.

Associated Names

Exhibition History

2001

  • A Century of Drawing, National Gallery of Art, Washington, 2001-2002, no. 99.

Bibliography

2001

  • A Century of Drawing. Exh. cat. National Gallery of Art, Washington, 2001-2002: no. 99.

Inscriptions

in graphite; upper right: RM 61

Watermarks

Strathmore

Wikidata ID

Q64629019

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