The artwork titled “At 5 Norma Catherine. But Are Retaken.” is an illustration created by artist Henry Darger. It falls under the Art Brut movement, which is characterized by its raw and unrefined style often produced by self-taught artists without formal training.
In the artwork, Henry Darger depicts a scene that appears to juxtapose the innocence of childhood with the harshness of conflict. In the foreground, several young girls are engrossed in playful activities, donned in colorful, detailed dresses. Their expressions and gestures exude a sense of curiosity and carefree innocence. In stark contrast, the background displays an urgent and tense scenario where men, likely soldiers, are engaged in combative actions, with some taking aim with their rifles. The sky above, although serene with scattered clouds, adds a depth that emphasizes the duality of peace and turmoil present in the depiction. The use of soft, pastel colors contributes to the childlike quality of the illustration while the thematic elements suggest a deeper, more complex narrative.
