The artwork titled “Lift Up Thy Voice and Sing” was created by William H. Johnson in 1944. It belongs to the Naïve Art (Primitivism) movement and is classified as a genre painting.
This vibrant piece features a group of animated figures, seemingly engaged in a communal activity set against the backdrop of an American flag. The scene prominently displays a man, likely a preacher or speaker, with outstretched arms, addressing a mixed group of adults and children. The bold use of colors and simplified forms, typical of Naïve Art, imbue the artwork with a sense of immediacy and emotional directness. The figures are depicted with elongated limbs and exaggerated expressions, contributing to the energetic atmosphere of the scene. The artwork captures a moment of spirited unity and collective expression.
