Drawing

In times of emotional unrest, children often express themselves through art. Taped to firehouse and police station windows, tacked inside respite centers and ornamenting fences at the World Trade Center site, drawings and paintings created by this generation of youthful witnesses became a familiar sight throughout New York City in the aftermath of 9/11. The works created by children in art therapy programs and in school classrooms reflect diverse themes, including violence, patriotism, courage, fear, prejudice, sadness, compassion, and hope. Many cards and letters expressed gratitude to first responders and condolences to family members. Collected from children around the world, these artistic expressions capture the significance of the 9/11 attacks as seen through the eyes of the event's youngest witnesses.

This drawing was one of hundreds of pieces of art sent to the American Red Cross in the wake of the attacks. Some children wanted to thank volunteers for their humanitarian efforts. Others hoped their art would be forwarded to those directly affected by the attacks.