The artwork titled “Nehru and Gandhi” was created by William H. Johnson in 1945. This piece is part of the Naïve Art (Primitivism) movement and falls within the genre of history painting.
This piece of art portrays a striking and symbolic representation of Nehru, Gandhi, and other figures set against a background of vibrant, primitive forms and colors. The artwork showcases two central figures, depicted with stylized and exaggerated features, standing prominently in the middle. The background is filled with star motifs and abstract, colorful patterns, alongside additional figures engaging in various activities. The rugged, textured brushstrokes, and simplified forms are characteristic of the Naïve Art movement, giving the piece a raw and expressive quality. The overall color palette, dominated by earthy tones and punctuated by brighter hues, captures a sense of the historical and cultural significance of the depicted figures.