“Untitled Monument”, created in 2001 by artist Rachel Whiteread, is a sculpture that falls within the genres of Conceptual Art and Post-Minimalism. The artwork, part of Whiteread’s oeuvre, exemplifies her distinctive minimalist approach and conceptual exploration.
The artwork is a large, transparent, resin cast of an empty plinth, designed to occupy the Fourth Plinth in Trafalgar Square, London. It stands atop a grand stone base, juxtaposed with the traditional classical architecture surrounding it. The cast is crystal clear, exuding a sense of ethereality and lightness despite its imposing size. This juxtaposition emphasizes contrast between ephemeral and solid forms. The minimalist design of the sculpture challenges traditional notions of monumental art, inviting viewers to contemplate the nature of public monuments, the significance of emptiness, and the act of remembrance. It is a powerful reminder of the transitory nature of human accomplishments and the permanence of public memory.