“The Red Smile” is a portrait created by Alex Katz, an artist associated with the Pop Art movement. The artwork is a notable example of Katz’s work within this genre, demonstrating his distinctive simple forms and vivid color palette.
The artwork depicts a close-up profile view of a smiling woman’s face against a solid red background. The simplicity of the lines and shapes in the portrait, along with the use of flat areas of color, are characteristic features of Katz’s approach to portraiture. The woman’s facial features are softly defined, yet striking, with particular emphasis on her red lips, which stand out prominently. The expression captured is one of serene happiness, rendered in Katz’s signature style, which blends realism with abstraction. The red background intensifies the focus on the woman’s expressive smile, making it a central feature of the composition.
