The Family, 1948
Francis Newton Souza (1924–2002), a seminal figure in Indian modern art, was born in Portuguese Goa and co-founded the Bombay Progressive Artists' Group. Expelled from JJ School of Art for his involvement in anti-colonial protests, Souza's early work reflected Catholic imagery and social realism. His controversial and disruptive work led him to associate with the Communist Party. However, due to artistic limitations he eventually disengaged with the party, embracing primitivism and exploring themes of religious dogma, identity, and human struggle in his provocative paintings.