Untitled Jan 21, 71 [study for "tattoo" book] 1971

This untitled study by James McCracken Jr. from 1971 depicts a series of skeletal figures in various poses, drawn in black ink on paper. The work is likely a study for his book, "tattoo", which explores themes of death and decay through its imagery. McCracken's signature style is evident in the simplified, almost childlike rendering of the skeletons, giving the work a dark humor that contrasts with the morbid subject matter. The work is a prime example of McCracken's exploration of human mortality and his unique use of black and white ink to create unsettling and evocative art.