Fighters for Freedom: William H. Johnson Picturing Justice illuminates the extraordinary life and contributions of William H. Johnson (1901–1970), an artist associated with the Harlem Renaissance whose practice spanned several continents, as well as the contributions of historical figures he depicted. The exhibition is drawn from the Smithsonian American Art Museum’s collection of more than thirteen hundred works by Johnson.
Johnson painted his Fighters for Freedom series in the mid-1940s as a tribute to African American activists, scientists, teachers, and performers, as well as international heads of state, working to bring peace to the world. He celebrated their accomplishments even as he acknowledged the realities of racism, violence, and oppression that they faced and overcame. Some of his “Fighters”—Harriet Tubman, George Washington Carver, Marian Anderson, and Mohandas Gandhi—are familiar figures; others are less well-known individuals whose determination and sacrifice have been eclipsed over time. Johnson elevates each of their lives, offering historical insights and fresh perspectives through a colorful palette and the addition of tiny buildings, flags, and vignettes that evoke their work. Through these stories, he suggests that the pursuit of freedom is an ongoing, interconnected struggle, with moments of both triumph and tragedy, and he invites us to reflect on our own struggles for justice today. With Fighters for Freedom, Johnson reminds us that individual achievement and a commitment to social justice are at the heart of the American story.
The Weatherspoon has created extensive in-gallery interpretation strategies to deepen visitors’ understanding of Johnson and the featured historical figures. Both written and audio information are available, as is a self-guided family guide to the exhibition. Additional elements include four visual descriptions of key works; an all-ages reading area that offers visitors a chance to gather, learn, and reflect; and an activity station featuring responses from visitors about people they consider fighters for freedom today.
A beautifully illustrated catalogue accompanies the exhibition, co-published by the Smithsonian American Art Museum in association with Scala Arts Publishers Inc. It is available for purchase ($34.95, softcover) online.
Fighters for Freedom: William H. Johnson Picturing Justice is organized by the Smithsonian American Art Museum. Generous support for this project is provided by Art Bridges.
