Alex Katz's Black Dress 2 (Christy) is a captivating steel cutout sculpture that continues his exploration of portraiture and form. This piece depicts a woman, elegantly dressed in a black dress and black pointed heels. Her chestnut brown hair and the subtle shading on her legs and arms add a sense of depth and three-dimensionality to the sculpture, despite the inherently flat nature of Katz's work.

The choice of steel for the cutout emphasizes Katz's signature flatness, seamlessly translating his two-dimensional painting style into a three-dimensional form while maintaining the simplicity and elegance characteristic of his oeuvre. 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.

The subject's attire, consisting of the black dress and pointed heels, contributes to its 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 mastery in capturing 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 the legs and arms enhances its sense of realism and presence. 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 (Christy) 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 (Christy) exemplifies Katz's unique artistic vision, distilling complex subjects into their most essential elements and creating works that are both modern and timeless.