The Enigmatic Artistry of Billy Milligan: Unveiling Danny's Captivating Alter Portraits in The Crowded Room

Summary

Danny's use of painting as a coping mechanism in The Crowded Room mirrors Billy Milligan's own artistic talents and therapeutic approach.

Billy Milligan used his paintings to depict important individuals from his trial and childhood trauma, serving as a means to express his anger and aid in his coping process.

Similarly to Milligan, Danny's artwork showcased in the show indicates his potential for a prosperous career as an artist, with a suggestion of having his own gallery in the final episode.

Danny Sullivan, the protagonist of The Crowded Room, showcases his artistic abilities by painting portraits of diverse individuals, reflecting the influence of his personal experiences. The inspiration behind The Crowded Room stems from Daniel Keyes' literary work, The Minds of Billy Milligan, which delves into the trial of Billy Milligan, the first individual acquitted due to a diagnosis of Multiple Personality Disorder. Throughout the season, the show emphasizes Danny's paintings and their significance. For example, in one instance, Rya discovers his collection of portraits in the eerie "Ghost House," leading investigators to question whether these depictions could be those of individuals whom Danny had potentially harmed.

Towards the conclusion of the series, viewers witness Danny surrounded by his artwork in the hospital, hinting at the possibility of his artwork being displayed in a gallery. The title sequence of the show also reflects the artistic style that Danny adopts, illustrating how he employs art as a coping mechanism to confront the negative aspects of his life. The prominence given to Danny's painting throughout The Crowded Room invites speculation as to whether the person who inspired him in real life possessed the same artistic talent.

Billy Milligan Seemingly Didn't Draw His Alters, But He Painted Portraits Of Figures From His Trial

Danny from The Crowded Room is known for drawing all of his alters, but this aspect of his character is not directly influenced by Billy Milligan's story. However, Milligan, a self-taught artist, had been painting since his youth. Following his conviction, Milligan created portraits of Judge L. Alan Goldsberry, who presided over his trial, Dr. David Caul, who treated him at Athens Mental Health Center, and Daniel Keyes, the author of his story, The Minds of Billy Milligan.

According to Goldsberry, in an interview with Athens News, "He considered us the three most significant people in his life at that time, although I'm sure that ranking changed numerous times later on. Nonetheless, he spent a great deal of time with the three of us." Billy also depicted images of children who had suffered torment or abuse, which Goldsberry connected to the childhood trauma that contributed to Milligan's condition. These paintings served as a cathartic outlet for Milligan's pent-up anger and aided in his coping process.

Danny's Artist Future In The Crowded Room Is Inspired By Billy Milligan's Real Career

In the finale of The Crowded Room, Danny shares his collection of artwork with his mother, finding solace in his artistic creations while at the mental health center. He excitedly reveals that his art will soon be showcased in his own gallery, hinting at the potential for a future career in the art industry. This aspect of the story draws inspiration from Milligan himself, who used his own artwork to support himself following his case. In 1989, a gallery in Columbus, Ohio hosted an exhibition featuring Milligan's paintings. Additionally, Milligan generously gifted some of his artwork, with many pieces valued between $3,000 and $8,000.

Sources: Athens News, Bustle, The Columbus Dispatch