Alex Katz's Black Dress 2 Ulla is a captivating steel cutout sculpture that continues his exploration of portraiture and form. This piece depicts a woman named Ulla, elegantly dressed in a black dress and black shoes. Notably, Ulla's deep red hair tucked behind her ears and her cheerful smile imbue her with a kind and playful feeling.

The sculpture's choice of steel for the cutout emphasizes Katz's signature flatness, translating his two-dimensional painting style into a three-dimensional form while maintaining the simplicity and elegance characteristic of his work. The sleek, metallic finish of the sculpture lends it a modern aesthetic, allowing the figure to command attention with a crisp, clean silhouette against the surrounding space.

Ulla's attire, consisting of the black dress and shoes, contributes to the sculpture's sophisticated yet understated allure. The stark contrast between her dark clothing and the steel material accentuates the figure's outline, enhancing the graceful lines of her pose. Katz's ability to capture the essence of his subjects with minimal detail is evident in this work, where the emphasis lies on the overall form and expression rather than intricate features.

The addition of subtle shading on Ulla's legs and arms enhances the sculpture's sense of realism and presence, making her feel more three-dimensional. These nuanced details create a lifelike quality, inviting viewers to engage with the figure on a deeper level and fostering a sense of connection with the subject.

Black Dress 2 Ulla is a testament to Katz's versatility as an artist, showcasing his ability to convey emotion and character through minimalist forms. As part of Katz's broader body of work, which encompasses paintings, prints, and sculptures, this piece reflects his enduring fascination with contemporary culture and the portrayal of everyday life. Through its simplicity and elegance, Black Dress 2 Ulla exemplifies Katz's unique artistic vision, distilling complex subjects into their most essential elements and creating works that are both modern and timeless.