Ruth Qaulluaryuk

An Owl and Her Children by Ruth Qualluaryuk is a 37 x 25 inch linocut on paper produced in 1989 and signed in the bottom right. It is 17 out of 50 in the series and was part of the Zazelenchuk Collection of Inuit Art before coming to Rookleys. The piece is both playful and whimsical, depicting a combination of flora and fauna. The focal point is a large owl with its wings outstretched. Surrounded by other birds, bears and bison, the animals seem as if they are entangled in a web of vines, staring out at the viewer.

Qualluaryuk uses graphic imagery, textured linework and a bold contrast between light and dark to create this dynamic piece. Born in Nunavut in 1932, her work is on display at the National Gallery of Canada and the Canadian Museum of History.