Scrumpy is a unique breed of owl that has come to love human conveniences. Sadly, when a human gets tactile with Scrumpy, he lashes out and mutters incomprehensibly, apparently in a tongue that resembles spanish, except without any of the vowels. As a result he has unfortunately become known as the “hobo owl”. Even more unfortunate is that he is primarily found in cities and subsists off human scraps, generally the dregs of discarded beer and brandy bottles. Prior to human contact, Birdologists believe that Scrumpy ate other birds.
Published on
October 6, 2008 in
Sketches.
Gemmy was inspired by an El Tigre episode we recently saw, where Puma Loco and Sartana are in a museum, there is an owl with gems for eyes. Here’s Frank’s story about Gemmy:
Gemmy comes about her unique appearance as a result of thousands of years of evolution, or a delicate practical joke played by whatever deity you invest yourself in. Gemmy dwell in caves and uses her gem appearance as camouflage when stalked by predators such as the vampire bat. Occasionally some aspiring Gemologist tries to dig Gemmy out of her home, but few have lived to tell the tale. A particularly unique feature of the Gemmy Owl is that she has no soul.
The last two pieces have been on canvas pad, this one is on an honest to god stretched canvas bought from an art supply store! What a rare and terrifying thing! Here is Frank’s story:
Little Crumpet is blessed with many attributes considered desirable amongst owls. These include a nice symmetrical plumage, sturdy feathers and immaculately tapered wings. However, his small stature and a “firm snout”, as it is known in the animal kingdom, works to his disadvantage. Although his beak is sturdy with a low centre of gravity and superior tendon strength, it is considered misshapen by other species of owls. But do not despair for poor little Crumpet, he has already found a partner and they are very happy together!
I asked Frank to write a short story for each of my Owltober entries. Here it is:
Betsy is ever so slightly on edge this fine spring morning. Her usual joyous trip to the florist was not without its trifles today, as the usual pansies she regularly uses to garnish her hat were nowhere to be found! Instead her hat is almost toppling under the weight of the rare blue daisy that the florist said went so well with her elegant pink bowler. To top it off, she became so flustered she did not notice the price tag and now she may not have enough change for her morning commute on the Owltown Train! Poor little Betsy!
Sorry I’ve been a bit late on the sketches lately! I’m going to make up for it by partaking in Owltober. This month will see 31 drawings of owls, some paintings, some ink pieces, maybe even some sketches.
Owls!
