“4 Mars 1973 (from Today Series)” is a notable artwork by On Kawara, created in 1973. It falls within the Conceptual Art movement and belongs to the figurative genre. The artwork manifests the artist’s preoccupation with time and existence, elements frequently explored in the broader Today Series.
The artwork presents a stark, minimalist composition dominated by a black canvas featuring the date “4 Mars 1973” prominently displayed in a white sans-serif typeface. The simplicity and precision of the date inscription reflect Kawara’s intent to mark the passage of time, inviting contemplation on the significance of individual days within the continuum of life and history. The work’s austere method elucidates the core tendencies of Conceptual Art, where the idea supersedes traditional aesthetics.
