Harriet Tubman 1945

"Harriet Tubman" is a 1945 painting by William H. Johnson, known for his vibrant depictions of African American life. This painting portrays Tubman, the famed abolitionist, with a staff and bag, walking towards a setting sun with a single star in the sky. The landscape suggests her journey to freedom, with a small house symbolizing the past, and the bright colors and bold lines reflecting Johnson's unique style, drawing inspiration from both modern art and African art traditions. The striped skirt of Tubman's dress is reminiscent of the American flag, suggesting her role as a liberator for her people. The painting's composition, with a figure in the foreground and a landscape background, reinforces the sense of movement and purpose, emphasizing the importance of Tubman's legacy.