Woman in Green Hat and Yellow Coat
Dateca. 1990
Artist/Maker
Anderson Johnson (1915-1998)
MediumPaint on masonite
DimensionsUnframed; irreg.: 28 3/8 x 20 7/16in. (72.1 x 51.9cm)
Credit LineGift of Ellin and Baron Gordon
Object number1995.100.1
DescriptionUnframed bust length frontal portrait of a woman painted on masonite in colored paints.Label TextAlthough Anderson Johnson occasionally created identifiable portraits, this arresting picture of a young woman is not known to represent a particular individual. Johnson also painted landscapes, likenesses of animals, biblical characters, and historical figures.
Johnson's fame as a folk artist eventually eclipsed his reputation as a compelling, self-appointed preacher. He covered the walls of his Faith Mission in Newport News with paintings and inscriptions, some executed directly on the walls, others on various kinds of salvaged material. Johnson also sang and played blues-style music on a piano and guitar. His paintings were spontaneous, direct expressions of his intense beliefs. He worked unceasingly and often said, "I like to take nothing and make something of it. That's the way of the Lord."
InscribedIn black paint in block letters at lower right is "A. JOHNSON".
ProvenanceObtained directly from the artist by CWF's donors, Ellin and Baron Gordon.
Probably 1841
ca. 1990
Probably 1838-1842
ca. 1810
ca. 1807
Probably 1838-1842
ca. 1815
Probably 1785-1787
1840-1880