Trees

1950s

Alex Katz

Associated Names
Alex Katz

Artist, American, born 1927

The image depicts a sketch-like painting seen from a front-facing perspective. It resembles a page from a spiral-bound sketchbook. There are dense, abstract, dark shapes that suggest a line of trees or foliage beyond the view. The bold and expressive brushstrokes, with thick black paint applied in sweeping motions, create an impression of a forest with simplified, stylized forms. The color palette is stark, composed of shades ranging from pure black to off-white, emphasizing high contrast and negative space. The shapes closer to the viewer are denser and more pronounced, while they fade near the top of the image, conveying depth.
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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    brush and black ink on wove paper

  • Credit Line

    Gift of the Parnassus Foundation

  • Dimensions

    overall: 20.3 x 25.4 cm (8 x 10 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1998.31.13.k

  • Series Title

    Katz Sketchbook

Associated Artworks

See all 27 artworks

Katz Sketchbook

Alex Katz

1950

The image features irregular, flowing lines and shapes on a brown paper surface. Dark blue splotches and winding lines suggest elements of nature. A dark form in the center resembles a tall, slender tree. Loosely arranged circular dark blue shapes could be interpreted as a cluster of fruits or foliage. A rectangular scrap of paper is present, along with small sketches and numbers. The image has qualities of abstract expressionism and may evoke plans or sketches observed in nature.

Untitled

Alex Katz

1950

The image shows a series of simple lines and shapes on a textured brown background. Green and dark blue lines form an abstract composition, with some curved lines. The dark blue marks might resemble a small boat or calligraphy.

Untitled

Alex Katz

1950


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Alex Katz; acquired by NGA in 1998 with funds provided by the Parnassus Foundation.

Associated Names

Wikidata ID

Q64534066

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