Meisjes op straat 1938

Henk Henriët made this pencil drawing, "Meisjes op straat" or "Girls on the Street," in 1938. It presents a seemingly simple scene of young girls, yet it subtly reflects the societal norms and the looming anxieties of its time. Henriët, a Dutch artist, captures the innocence of childhood against the backdrop of pre-war Europe. The girls' attire and posture offer glimpses into the era's social codes, hinting at the expectations placed upon young women. This was a time when institutions like family and school heavily influenced gender roles. What's particularly striking is the artist's choice to depict the girls in a public space, suggesting a burgeoning sense of freedom, yet shadowed by the uncertainty of the impending war. As art historians, we delve into the archives, newspapers, and personal accounts of the period to better understand the visual language of the time. Through this research, we can truly appreciate how art like this serves as a mirror to society, reflecting its values, fears, and hopes.