Graves utilizes a fusion of traditional oil and watercolor techniques to build a surface rich with tactile detail. The otter’s fur is rendered with a focus on textured surfaces, where cream aesthetics meet deep, earthy tones to create a sense of weight and warmth. There is a deliberate use of playful distortions that lean into the surreal, making the animal appear as if it is emerging from a dreamlike state rather than a literal riverbank.

The composition draws on color theory and psychology, using a muted palette to evoke a sense of raw transcendence. While the piece maintains a commitment to realistic art depiction in the fine details of the face, the inclusion of patterns reminiscent of indigenous fabric designs adds a layer of cultural depth. It is a study of wildlife that feels intimate and quiet, inviting the viewer to look closely at the interplay between the wild and the imagined.