Page 27 - The Arts Trust Souza The Centennial

huile et

acrylique

restrained yet thoughtful use of colours for wiping Jesus’ face on the way to Calvary
this period. A subtle yellow shade fills the into a conceptual work. sur toile
background, dominating the composition This transformation suggests that while
and suggesting the dispelling of darkness the artist fades away, nature evolves, and
and dark thoughts. Souza likely painted life shifts, the image endures as a powerful
this piece while in a happy state of mind. force of art, capable of transcending et planche
In the 1987 work titled Etruscan temporal boundaries. This work offers
Group, Souza draws inspiration from the viewers a contemplative space where
illustrious Etruscan civilisation, which once the intersection of classical symbolism
controlled the Italian peninsula before the and modern expressionism unfolds in a
rise of Rome. Flourishing between the mesmerising dialogue with the eternal.
8th and 3rd centuries BCE, the Etruscans Francis Newton Souza passed away
remain enigmatic due to the lack of in 2002 while visiting Mumbai. His legacy
surviving literature and historical records. extends beyond his paintings. He was a
Still Life with Veronica’s Veil and prolific writer and critic, penning essays
the Accoutrements of Christ’s Passion that articulated his vision for modern
reinterprets classical imagery such as Indian art. His works are held in prestigious
Veronica’s Veil and the Accoutrements of collections worldwide, including the Tate
Christ’s Passion within the unconventional Gallery in London and the National Gallery
setting of a still life. This approach of Modern Art in New Delhi. Despite facing
challenges the simplicity of the still-life criticism and controversy throughout his
genre and subverts audience expectations. career, Souza’s contributions to modernist oil and acrylic on canvas and board
The painting becomes a dialogue art remain influential, cementing his place
between the artist and the transcendent, as a seminal figure in the narrative of Indian
transforming the narrative of Veronica and global art history.

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