nl 125b Henry Darger (1892-1973)

The drawing presents a scene unfolding within what appears to be a prison complex or institutional setting. A long corridor stretches across the composition, lined with barred cells on either side. The perspective is slightly elevated, allowing for a broad view of the enclosed space and its inhabitants.
Within this structure, a group of children are depicted engaged in various activities. Some stand clustered together near the left edge, seemingly observing the central action. A larger contingent occupies the corridor’s center, actively participating in what appears to be a game or ritualistic play involving wooden sticks as weapons. The figures are rendered with a naive quality, their proportions and gestures somewhat stylized.
Several children are positioned within the cells themselves; some appear to be prisoners, while others seem to be observing from behind the bars. A handwritten inscription above the central group reads They flee and lock other children prisoner in cells, providing crucial context for understanding the depicted scenario. The text suggests a dynamic of pursuit and confinement, hinting at power imbalances and potential conflict within this enclosed environment.
The color palette is muted, dominated by pale greens and yellows, contributing to an atmosphere of institutional drabness. The light source appears to be from above, casting shadows that add depth and dimension to the scene.
Subtly, the drawing conveys a sense of childhood trauma and the internalization of oppressive structures. The children’s actions, though seemingly playful, are imbued with undertones of violence and control. The prison setting itself symbolizes restriction and loss of freedom, while the inscription reveals a complex social dynamic within this confined space. It is likely that the work serves as a poignant commentary on the psychological impact of incarceration and the ways in which children adapt to and perpetuate systems of power, even within simulated environments.