1) Topographical Space 6; 2) Topographical Space 7
Jack Whitten, 1974
Jack Whitten is crucial in the history of African American artists. These two drawings resulted from a groundbreaking series of residencies at the Xerox Corporation in the early 1970s. They emphasise Whitten's interest in horizontal gesture, underlying surfaces, and materiality. They serve as a bridge between his poured paintings of the early 1970s and the raked paintings that followed. While abstract, these works can been read as visual metaphors of Vietnam-era war images broadcast on television, as well as references to early experimental video practices of the 1970s, with the dynamic black and white horizontal lines and ghosted movement. This work was presented by the Art Fund through Art Fund International.
More information
Title of artwork, date
1) Topographical Space 6; 2) Topographical Space 7, 1974
Date supported
2010
Medium and material
Dry pigment on paper
Dimensions
20.3 x 29.2 cm
Grant
9726.936
Total cost
9726.936

Get a National Art Pass and explore MIMA, Middlesbrough Institute of Modern Art
You'll see more art and your membership will help museums across the UK
National Art Pass offers available at MIMA, Middlesbrough Institute of Modern Art
20% off in shop
Enjoy 20% off in the shop with your National Art Pass
Expires: 1 Jan 2026
Art Funded by you FAQs
Contact us
If you have a question about a work of art in our archive, please contact the Programmes team. We’ll be happy to answer your enquiry.