Francis Newton Souza (1924-2002)

SEVENARTS inscribed on stretcher on reverse. Loss to a small square area of bluish-green paint at center left has been filled in
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Souza's early cityscapes tend to follow a deceptively simple rectilinear structure with bold black outlines that enclose glowing colors, but by the early 1960's distortions of form become characteristic of his vision of the city.  'His early cityscapes follow a rectilinear structure, which later in the 1960's give way to an apocalyptic vision.  The tumbling houses in their frenzied movement are also symbolic of all things falling apart, of the very root of things being shaken.' (Y. Dalmia, The Making of Modern Indian Art: The Progressives, New Delhi, 2001, p. 93). This apocalyptic vision appears to be inspired by the same post-War angst that had influenced other British based artists like Francis Bacon and writers like T.S . Eliot.

'The landscapes, architectonic with their 'cubic factors' are ultimately lyrical.  There is an unrestrained enthusiasm, a liberty in the application of color that is swiftly applied with a palette knife, creating smooth pulsating textures.' (Anthony Ludwig, Souza, New Delhi, Dhoomi Mal Gallery exhibition catalogue).