Tiznit (1953) by Cy Twombly

Tiznit - Cy Twombly - 1953

Artwork Information

TitleTiznit
ArtistCy Twombly
Date1953
MediumWhite lead, house paint, Crayon, and pencil on Canvas
Dimensions(135.9 x 189.2 cm)
Art MovementAbstract Expressionism
Current LocationPrivate collection
Order a Custom Print of this Artwork!

About Tiznit

In 1953, Cy Twombly created “Tiznit”, an artwork that combines house paint, pencil, and crayon. As an artist, Twombly was fascinated with ancient Greco-Roman culture, French Neoclassicism, and contemporary graffiti, as evident in this piece. “Tiznit” is considered an example of abstract expressionism, a style characterized by expressive mark-making and an emphasis on the process of creating art.

Twombly’s travels with Robert Rauschenberg significantly influenced his art, especially his interest in classical antiquity. During their travels, they visited Tiznit and Volubilis, where they experienced the cultural expressions of classical antiquity. As an artist, Twombly was influenced by the dada and surrealist movements. His paintings and drawings were obsessive and impulsive, and “Tiznit” is no exception. Twombly’s work often sent messages to the audience without imposing meaning, and this painting is no different.

Recently, “Tiznit” was acquired by the Museum of Modern Art, adding it to their collection. Twombly’s art has been exhibited since a young age, and he made both sculptures and paintings, but it was his mark-making and expressive visual language that cemented his place in art history.

Other Artwork from Cy Twombly

More Abstract Expressionism Artwork

Scroll to Top