IS2 083 Kathy OBrien 01 Kathy O’Brien

The drawing presents a still life arrangement centered around travel and documentation. A worn leather satchel dominates the composition, its surface rendered with meticulous detail through cross-hatching that emphasizes texture and age. The strap of the bag drapes across the scene, partially obscuring several items arranged beneath it.
A safari hat, bearing the inscription Wildlife, rests atop the satchel, immediately suggesting a connection to natural exploration and observation. A vintage camera lies adjacent to the hat, its lens pointed towards the viewer, implying an act of recording or capturing moments. The presence of a passport is clearly indicated on the bag’s front pocket, reinforcing the theme of international travel.
Beneath the satchel, a stack of books and documents are piled together. One book displays a cover featuring a lions head, further solidifying the African safari context. Another document prominently reads Africa Safari, while another appears to be a field guide with detailed illustrations. The layering creates depth and suggests accumulated knowledge or experiences gathered during travels.
The artist’s use of black and white allows for a focus on form and texture, creating a sense of realism and nostalgia. The meticulous rendering of each object – the stitching on the bag, the grain of the paper, the details of the camera – suggests an appreciation for craftsmanship and tangible history.
Subtly, the arrangement evokes themes of adventure, documentation, and perhaps even preservation. The worn condition of the satchel and hat hints at journeys undertaken and stories held within these objects. Theres a sense of quiet contemplation; the scene feels paused, as if the traveler has momentarily set down their gear to reflect on past experiences or prepare for future ones. The overall effect is one of understated narrative, inviting the viewer to imagine the stories behind these travel essentials.