‘The Owl and the PussyCat’
I’m living out my childhood fantasy right now because I have finally made something for Book Week that isn’t reworked toilet paper rolls made with a glue that won’t hold (no-one told me when I was a wee innocent that stick glue couldn’t do everything!)
The book is ‘The Owl and the PussyCat’ by Edward Lear (First published in 1871). A classic love story. Whimsical. Lyrical. Nonsensical. Excellent word length for child and parent.
I can’t think of a better way to physically enjoy the age-old tradition of storytelling than a costume change that only takes 5 seconds when you are out and about in real life.
Practicality aside, I chose a colour rich approach to the characters. I’m a marshmallow for a 70’s colour palate that has mustard yellow, red and blush pink. I’m also a dedicated maximalist addicted to second hand/vintage materials that give new relevance to any random fabric I find in the wild.
the owl
A rock God. With a small guitar he sang to the stars. His humble approach to music made kitty fall in love. A down to earth personality with an extraordinary voice. He deserves nothing more than strong blues in his brow and delicate trim around his eyes.
Owl is a resourceful aviator, a go-getter. An excellent life companion with beautiful plumage. A character worthy of literally adoration.
the pussycat
A nautical protagonist with exotic tastes. A dedicated adventurer. An intelligent soul. Everything I thought adulthood was when I was a child!
She is also a graceful kitty. Her mask has colours that are delicately pastel yet paradoxically ice bold. A good analogy for a complicated personality.
To me there is no better way to experience the theatre of International Book Week1 then by making symbolic representations of two very eclectic little beings.
And if I had the time I would definitely have made a mask for the Piggy-wig “with the ring at the end of his nose, His nose, His nose. With the ring at the end of his nose”.
And the turkey who lives on the hill.
- http://www.cbca.org.au
The Children’s Book Council of Australia 1945-2025
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raincoats for penguins 
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