Francis Newton Souza (1924-2002) Untitled (Woman)

Francis Newton Souza (1924-2002) Untitled (Woman) dated '1966' upper left ink on paper, framed 25 x 19.5cm (9 13/16 x 7 11/16in). Footnotes: Provenance Property from a private collection, UK. The Estate of Francis Newton Souza; Saffronart, 12th September 2019, lot 8c; Acquired from Story Ltd, Absolute Tuesdays, 2nd February 2021, Lot 41. 'Souza as a draughtsman was not only consistent but prodigious. He would draw incessantly, in his studio, on buses, on every conceivable surface and fill up countless sketch books.' (Saffron Art & Grosvenor Gallery, Francis Newton Souza, Planet Saffron Inc. and Grosvenor Gallery (Fine Arts) Ltd, 2005, p.78) Early Life and Education Souza was born into a Roman Catholic family in Portuguese-occupied Goa. His early years were fraught with challenges, including poverty and the loss of his father at a young age. Despite these hardships, Souza displayed a remarkable talent for drawing, catching the attention of his teachers and local artists. Encouraged by their support, he pursued formal art education at the Sir J.J. School of Art in Mumbai, where he honed his skills and developed a strong foundation in classical European art techniques. The Progressive Artists' Group After completing his formal education, Souza moved to London in 1949, where he was exposed to the avant-garde art scene. He soon became a prominent member of the 'Progressive Artists' Group,' a collective of artists who aimed to break free from the confines of traditional Indian art and embrace contemporary, international influences. Souza's work from this period is characterized by a blend of Western modernism and a distinct Indian sensibility. Artistic Style and Themes Souza's style was bold and unapologetic. He painted with a sense of urgency, often using thick impasto layers and vibrant colours to depict his subjects. His subjects ranged from portraits and landscapes to religious and erotic themes. Souza's fascination with the human form was a recurring motif in his work, which he often rendered in an abstract and distorted manner, exploring themes of desire, sexuality, and spirituality. Controversy and Critique Souza's provocative art often courted controversy, and his provocative themes led to both admiration and condemnation. His bold depictions of sexuality and religion sometimes raised eyebrows, even leading to legal troubles. Despite these challenges, Souza remained uncompromising in his artistic vision, and his work continued to garner attention on the international stage. International Success In the 1950s and 1960s, Souza's reputation as a groundbreaking artist grew beyond India's borders. He exhibited extensively in London, New York, and other major art capitals, earning critical acclaim and commercial success. His paintings were acquired by major museums and private collectors worldwide, solidifying his status as a leading figure in contemporary art. Later Life and Legacy Souza's later years were marked by personal struggles, including health issues and financial difficulties. He spent the last years of his life in New York, where he continued to paint prolifically until his passing on March 28, 2002. Souza's legacy endures through his pioneering contributions to modern Indian art, inspiring subsequent generations of artists to push boundaries and challenge conventions. To see similar works sold at Christies see The Art of Souza: Property from the Estate of Francis Newton Souza, 9th June 2010, lot 89. This lot is subject to the following lot symbols: AR AR Goods subject to Artists Resale Right Additional Premium. For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com For further information about this lot please visit the lot listing