145 at Jennie Richee. Hard Pressed and Harassaed by the Storm 

“145 at Jennie Richee. Hard Pressed and Harassaed by the Storm” is an unsettling image created by Henry Darger, an outsider artist who worked prolifically from the 1930s to the 1960s. Darger’s work is embedded in the historical context of the early to mid-20th century, a period marked by significant social upheaval, including the rise of industrialization, urbanization, and evolving attitudes toward children. His art reflects a deep engagement with themes of innocence, violence, and the struggle for justice. This image offers a glimpse into Darger’s complex inner world, populated by the Vivian Girls, his heroines, who are often depicted in violent, surreal scenes. These gender-ambiguous children navigate a landscape fraught with peril, reflecting Darger’s experiences of abandonment and institutionalization. This piece explores the vulnerability of childhood through scenes of struggle and adversity, revealing a raw, emotional depth. Darger once said, "I am not interested in art for art's sake, but for the sake of saving my soul." The picture is disturbing, but also evokes a sense of empathy for the defenseless, challenging us to confront uncomfortable truths about our world.