Bb 0034 And Zig Steve&MarionIsham sqs Steve& Marion Isham

The drawing presents a peculiar juxtaposition of natural and artificial elements, creating a sense of unsettling incongruity. Here we see three bandicoots – an adult and two juveniles – positioned in front of what appears to be a wooden enclosure or barrier. The animals are rendered with considerable detail, their striped fur meticulously depicted, conveying a sense of realism despite the overall surreal nature of the scene.
To the right of the bandicoots, affixed to the enclosure, is a sign bearing the words Melbourne Zoo and an illustration featuring zebras. This immediately establishes a context of captivity and observation, suggesting that the bandicoots are part of a zoological display. The presence of vegetation – likely foliage – emerges from behind the enclosure, hinting at a more natural environment beyond the confines of the zoo setting.
Dominating the foreground is an oversized, stylized head resembling a lizard or reptile. Its scale dwarfs the bandicoots and the enclosure, creating a visual imbalance that contributes to the drawing’s unsettling quality. The creatures eye stares directly forward, establishing a disconcerting gaze that implicates the viewer in the scene. A large lens, presumably part of a camera or optical device, is attached to the reptile head, further emphasizing themes of observation and surveillance.
The color palette is somewhat muted, with earthy tones dominating the depiction of the bandicoots and enclosure. However, the lizard-like head introduces brighter hues – oranges, yellows, and reds – that draw attention to its imposing presence. The contrast between these colors and the more subdued background contributes to a feeling of unease.
Subtextually, the drawing seems to explore themes of confinement, observation, and the relationship between humans and animals. The bandicoots’ proximity to the enclosure suggests a forced interaction with human observers, while the oversized reptile head – with its attached lens – symbolizes the act of looking, potentially representing the invasive nature of scientific or recreational scrutiny. The juxtaposition of the natural (bandicoots) and the artificial (zoo sign, camera lens) raises questions about authenticity and the constructedness of environments. The presence of the young bandicoot hints at a generational cycle continuing within this controlled setting, perhaps commenting on the perpetuation of captivity. Overall, the drawing evokes a sense of alienation and invites reflection on the ethics of displaying wildlife for human consumption.