Ookpik

The snowy owl mainly lives in the arctic regions of North America and in Eurasia, they prey on small mammals and hares, when they are young like Ookpik they have black plumage unlike the barn owl or the tawny owl they hunt in the daylight. They are fierce protectors of their nests. Ookpik is a legend from the Inuit nation which you might like to read, all about how the owl got her white feathers and how Raven got her black feathers.
 
The owl is significant to Inuit culture and spirituality. A source of guidance and wisdom, some Inuit believe that the owl safely shepherds the spirits of the dead to the afterworld. Although different Inuit communities have their own tales and legends about the owl, this creature remains a central figure across oral histories. For many, the owl, like other culturally significant animals, is thought to have an important relationship with both humans and the environment. A revered creature, the owl is featured prominently in many pieces of Inuit art, including Pitseolak Ashoona’s Owls in Spring Snow (1972) and Kenojuak Ashevak’s Guardian Owl (1997). (The Canadian Encyclopedia - Copyright)
 
Pencil crayon - 30x30cm approx