The artwork titled “Teheran Conference,” painted by William H. Johnson in 1945, is an exemplary piece within the Naïve Art (Primitivism) movement and belongs to the history painting genre. This artwork captures a significant historical event, the Tehran Conference, with a distinctive and simplistic artistic style characteristic of naïve art.
In “Teheran Conference,” three prominent figures are depicted seated around a simple table, engaged in conversation, symbolizing an important moment of diplomatic dialogue during World War II. The artist uses flat, bold colors and minimal detail to capture the essence of each participant. Flags of different nations are displayed prominently in the upper section of the artwork, denoting their respective countries. Each figure, dressed in their respective recognizable uniforms or suits, brings focus to their roles and significance in this historical meeting. In the background, a classical structure is reminiscent of grandiose governmental or institutional buildings, further alluding to the significance of the event taking place. The overall style is characterized by its simplicity and directness, typical of the Naïve Art movement, inviting viewers to observe the historical moment with a sense of purity and unembellished realism.
