Untitled (Couple) 1950

Charles Alston’s “Untitled (Couple)” from 1950 is a striking example of Cubist-inspired portraiture. The work features a close-up view of a couple, their faces fragmented and layered, with bold, contrasting colors like red, blue, and black. Alston’s use of geometric shapes and simplified forms creates a sense of depth and movement, while the fragmented faces suggest a sense of intimacy and emotional complexity. The artwork exemplifies Alston’s artistic exploration of the African American experience, with a focus on the human condition and its complexities.