Jane Hissey – Hoot 29, De Jane Hissey

The drawing presents a stylized depiction of an owl nestled within a woven basket. The creatures form is rounded and softened, lending it a distinctly childlike quality. Its plumage appears textured, resembling knitted wool rather than feathers, contributing to the overall sense of comfort and domesticity. Large, expressive eyes dominate the face; their orange hue contrasts with the pale tones of the owl’s body, drawing immediate attention and conveying a gentle inquisitiveness.
The basket itself is rendered in warm earth tones – ochre and brown – and its woven texture is meticulously detailed. It provides a secure and cozy enclosure for the owl, suggesting safety and contentment. A small blanket, patterned with blue stars on a white background, drapes over the side of the basket, adding a layer of visual interest and hinting at a narrative context – perhaps a bedtime scene or a moment of quiet repose.
The lighting is soft and diffused, creating subtle gradations in tone that enhance the three-dimensionality of both the owl and the basket. The artist has employed shading to suggest volume and form, while maintaining a delicate and whimsical aesthetic.
Subtextually, the work evokes feelings of warmth, security, and innocence. The owl’s posture – relaxed and seemingly at ease – implies trust and vulnerability. The blanket with stars introduces an element of familiarity and perhaps alludes to themes of home or belonging. Overall, the drawing communicates a sense of gentle charm and invites contemplation on notions of comfort, safety, and the simple pleasures of existence.