'Souza is a painter of cityscapes and religious themes. While in the latter he is loaded with a troubled presentiment, in the former he is singularly devoid of emotive inhibitions. Unlike the cityscapes of Ram Kumar which ooze a silent melancholy and flare warmly from amidst the gloomy shadows of all-consuming time, Souza's cityscapes are the congealed visions of a mysterious world. Whether standing stolidly in enamelled petrification or delineated in thin colours with calligraphic intonations, the cityscapes of Souza are purely plastic entitles with no reference to memories or mirrors.' J. Swaminathan, (21.10.62), Souza's Exhibition. Rpt in LKC 40 (Mar 1995)

Francis Newton Souza, a trailblazing artist of the 20th century, left an indelible mark on the world of modern Indian art. His distinctive style, marked by bold colours, striking compositions, and a fearless exploration of the human form, made him one of India's most celebrated and controversial artists. Born on April 12, 1924, in Saligao, Goa, Souza's life journey was a tumultuous one, marked by artistic triumphs and personal tribulations.

Early Life and Education
Souza was born into a Roman Catholic family in Portuguese-occupied Goa. His early years were fraught with challenges, including poverty and the loss of his father at a young age. Despite these hardships, Souza displayed a remarkable talent for drawing, catching the attention of his teachers and local artists. Encouraged by their support, he pursued formal art education at the Sir J.J. School of Art in Mumbai, where he honed his skills and developed a strong foundation in classical European art techniques.

The Progressive Artists' Group
After completing his formal education, Souza moved to London in 1949, where he was exposed to the avant-garde art scene. He soon became a prominent member of the "Progressive Artists' Group," a collective of artists who aimed to break free from the confines of traditional Indian art and embrace contemporary, international influences. Souza's work from this period is characterized by a blend of Western modernism and a distinct Indian sensibility.

Artistic Style and Themes
Souza's style was bold and unapologetic. He painted with a sense of urgency, often using thick impasto layers and vibrant colours to depict his subjects. His subjects ranged from portraits and landscapes to religious and erotic themes. Souza's fascination with the human form was a recurring motif in his work, which he often rendered in an abstract and distorted manner, exploring themes of desire, sexuality, and spirituality.

Controversy and Critique
Souza's provocative art often courted controversy, and his provocative themes led to both admiration and condemnation. His bold depictions of sexuality and religion sometimes raised eyebrows, even leading to legal troubles. Despite these challenges, Souza remained uncompromising in his artistic vision, and his work continued to garner attention on the international stage.

International Success
In the 1950s and 1960s, Souza's reputation as a groundbreaking artist grew beyond India's borders. He exhibited extensively in London, New York, and other major art capitals, earning critical acclaim and commercial success. His paintings were acquired by major museums and private collectors worldwide, solidifying his status as a leading figure in contemporary art.

Later Life and Legacy
Souza's later years were marked by personal struggles, including health issues and financial difficulties. He spent the last years of his life in New York, where he continued to paint prolifically until his passing on March 28, 2002. Souza's legacy endures through his pioneering contributions to modern Indian art, inspiring subsequent generations of artists to push boundaries and challenge conventions.