Cindy Sherman

Untitled #410

previous next

About this artwork

Cindy Sherman began her Clowns series of photographs in 2003. As a logical progression of her interest in dressing up, the photographs explore the range of emotions that can lie behind the painted face of a clown. The series was inspired by an article of clothing, a pair of pyjamas with fur-like buttons, which the artist purchased at a yard sale. In this photograph, the clown’s outfit of a rather frumpy patterned skirt and frilled blouse seems to be at odds with her riotous make-up and cowboy hat. While the costume and hand suggest a middle-aged woman, the face is dramatically different. The digitally-manipulated background to the clown refers to traditional, brightly-coloured circus posters.

Updated before 2020

  • artist:
    Cindy Sherman (born 1954) American
  • title:
    Untitled #410
  • date created:
    2003
  • materials:
    Colour photograph on pvc board
  • measurements:
    141.00 x 101.50 cm
  • object type:
  • credit line:
    Purchased with assistance from Art Fund and the Patrons of the National Galleries of Scotland, 2004
  • accession number:
    GMA 4722
  • gallery:
  • glossary:
  • artwork photographed by:
    Antonia Reeve
Does this text contain inaccurate information or language that you feel we should improve or change? Tell us what you think.

Cindy Sherman

Cindy Sherman