William H. Johnson
1901–1970 · American · 30 artworks
ExpressionismNaïve Art (Primitivism)Bold color palettesSimplified formsFlat perspectiveNarrative storytellingUse of symbolism
artist bio
William H. Johnson was an African American artist known for his vibrant, folk-style paintings that captured the essence of African American life and culture. He simplified forms and used bold colors to express emotion and narrative, contributing significantly to American modernism and challenging racial stereotypes in art.
what you'll learn
Students can learn about simplification of form, use of color to convey emotion, and the representation of cultural narratives through studying Johnson's work. His art provides insight into the African American experience and the power of art as social commentary.
related: Horace Pippin, Romare Bearden
30 artworks
Snow Peaks and Blossoms
1938
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Folk Family
1944
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Deep South
1941
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Dr. George Washington Carver
1945
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Little Girl in Orange
1944
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Harlem Street Scene with Full Moon
1940
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Farm Family
1940
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Flowers
1945
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Church on Lenox Avenue
1940
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Danish Roadside
1930
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Self-Portrait with Pipe
1937
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Cotton Pickers
1940
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Harbor Under the Midnight Sun
1937
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Nehru and Gandhi
1945
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Farm Family - Nursing Child
1944
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Blossoming Trees
1938
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Chalet in the Mountains
1938
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Commodore Peary and Henson at the North Pole
1945
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Classroom Scene
1946
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Harriet Tubman
1945
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Lunchtime Rest
1941
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Portrait of Ilya Bolotowsky
1930
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Mountains and Sea, Hardanger Fjord, Norway
1938
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Children at Ice Cream Stand
1939
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Marian Anderson
1945
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Portrait of Fletcher
1939
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Underground Railroad
1945
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Athlete
1940
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Refugee
1935
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Operation Room
1942
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