Adored by collectors and art lovers around the globe, Alex Katz is renowned for his elegant and distinctive version of figuration.

Born in 1927, Katz has been dedicated to art-making since the 1950's - however it wasn't until the 60's when he established his signature 'flat' aesthetic. Over the succeeding decades, Katz kept the tradition of figurative painting alive as it had gone out of style. 

For Katz, printmaking has always been an essential part of his process, and as an integral part of his oeuvre.

"Purple Tulips 1" is one of seven large-scale images from the Flowers portfolio. See  another example from the portfolio here. Flowers have always been a favorite subject for Katz. He has been depicting and interpreting the flora and fauna or Maine including  goldenrods, dogwoods, lilies, and tulips for over 60 years.

With a soft pink backdrop, lush purple petals, and punchy green stems, "Purple Tulips" conveys both the energy and colours of Spring. The flowers boast a striking, graphic presence, their essence distilled and their timeless elegance on display. By turning his attention onto flora in the same way that he does with human subjects, Katz offers alluring floral compositions full of harmony and balance.

Although a recent work, this is classic Alex Katz.

Questions about this piece? Contact us, call +1.416.704.1720, or visit our Toronto gallery.

"Purple Tulips 1"

USA, 2021

Archival pigment ink laser print on Innova Etching Cotton Rag paper, 315 gsm

Signed "Alex Katz" and numbered "80/100" by the artist in pencil, lower left

Artist's and publisher's copyright stamp on verso, lower right

From an edition of 100

32”H 47”W (sheet)

33.75"H 49"W (framed)

Published and Printed by Lococo Fine Art Publisher, St Louis, 2021

Excellent condition.

Literature: Alex Katz: Catalogue Raisonné, prints: 1947-2023, listed as cat. no. 734 alongside the entire Flowers portfolio (cat. nos. 731-737) on pages 398-400.