Wandering about and ‘boo-hoo’-ing. 1911

Arthur Rackham made this earthy illustration around 1907, using pen and ink. It looks like it’s been sketched quickly, the lines are scratchy and full of energy; but I also imagine Rackham paying close attention to the emotional expressions of the children. I love how he has captured their sadness and despair through simple gestures, like their downturned mouths and screwed-up eyes. The colours are muted and earthy, which adds to the overall feeling of melancholy. I wonder what he was thinking about when he made this? Was he trying to capture a universal feeling of childhood loss, or was he illustrating a specific story? Whatever his intention, the effect is powerful. Looking at this piece reminds me of Paula Rego, another artist who isn’t afraid to explore the darker side of childhood. Artists are always in conversation with each other across time, using their work to inspire new ways of thinking and feeling.