Francis Newton Souza (1924–2002) was a pivotal figure in the development of modern Indian art. Born in Portuguese Goa, Souza's early life was steeped in Roman Catholic traditions, which heavily influenced his later works. After being expelled from the JJ School of Art in Bombay for his involvement in anti-colonial protests, Souza co-founded the Bombay Progressive Artists' Group in 1947, a collective dedicated to breaking away from the traditional academic styles taught at Indian art schools and the nationalist revivalism of the Bengal School.
Initially, Souza’s work was aligned with the ideals of the Communist Party, embracing social realism to depict the struggles of the working class. However, he soon grew frustrated with the limitations imposed by political ideologies, believing they stifled his creativity. This led him to explore more personal and controversial themes, including the tension between religious devotion and dogma, as seen in his disturbing depiction of the Pietà.
Souza’s bold, angular style, often incorporating elements of primitivism, set him apart from his contemporaries. His works were known for their shocking imagery and strong social commentary, which both challenged and captivated audiences. Despite facing censorship and controversy, Souza’s legacy remains influential in the narrative of post-colonial Indian art.