William Henry Johnson (1901–1970) was an African American painter and printmaker associated with the Harlem Renaissance and the Modernist movement. Here are key points about William H. Johnson:1. **Early Life:** William Henry Johnson was born on March 18, 1901, in Florence, South Carolina. He showed an early interest in art and attended the National Academy of Design in New York City.2. **Harlem Renaissance:** Johnson moved to New York in the early 1920s, becoming part of the vibrant cultural scene of the Harlem Renaissance. During this period, he interacted with other artists, writers, and musicians who were contributing to the flourishing of African American arts and culture.3. **European Training:** In the 1920s, Johnson continued his art education in Europe, studying in France and later in Germany. He was influenced by European modernist movements and absorbed elements of Expressionism.4. **Marriage to Holcha Krake:** Johnson married Danish artist Holcha Krake in 1930. Their relationship was central to both of their artistic lives, and they traveled together, gaining inspiration from various cultures.5. **Style:** Johnson's style evolved over the years. His early work reflects the influence of European modernism, while his later pieces, especially those created during the 1930s and 1940s, demonstrate a more distinct African and African American aesthetic.6. **Return to the United States:** Johnson and his wife returned to the United States in 1938. They settled in New York, and Johnson began creating works inspired by African American culture, folk art, and the daily lives of Black Americans.7. **WPA and Recognition:** Johnson gained support from the Works Progress Administration (WPA) during the Great Depression. His art gained recognition, and he received awards for his contributions.8. **Migration Series:** One of Johnson's notable works is the "Migration Series," a collection of paintings depicting the Great Migration of African Americans from the rural South to the urban North. This series is now divided between the Phillips Collection in Washington, D.C., and the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York.9. **Later Years:** Johnson faced mental health challenges in the 1940s, leading to hospitalization. Despite these difficulties, he continued to create art. His later works are characterized by simplicity and vibrancy.10. **Death and Legacy:** William H. Johnson passed away on April 13, 1970, in Central Islip, New York. His contributions to African American art and his distinctive style have gained increased recognition in the years following his death. Johnson's legacy is celebrated for his unique synthesis of modernist influences and African American cultural expressions.William H. Johnson's art is valued for its cultural richness, capturing the essence of African American life and history. His work serves as a testament to the complex and evolving narratives within the broader context of American art.
Measures 11.5 x 16.

Good condition. No rips, tears, creases.