One of the ways I am creating my "own" space in my studio, is to decorate it with my collection of favorite black cat artwork, from some truly very talented people. Not because I intend to copy any artist, but because it is very inspirational for me, and reminds me that when and if I ever find my muse again, I will be a happy and productive artist. Right now I've been trying to decide what to hang, and where. Some of the items need to be framed, others are ready to go. I've collected a lot of black cat pieces over the years, and I have a lot of favorite artists, as Lisa and Marie can attest to. I have quite a number of their paintings up in the studio, and a few of Marie's clay sculptures too. I love original oil paintings, but most are costly, although I do have about a dozen from artists Rosemary Daunis and Norma Zaro, from Argentina. I have several stunning prints from British painter Denise Laurent.But a favorite artist of mine is Rachel Parker, who lived just up the road from us in South Carolina. I have several of her prints, but only one original.
The first photo is my scanned copy of the original watercolor from Rachel that I own. I bought it because it reminded me so much of Hairy. I hope Rachel doesn't mind me reproducing it here, since I am singing her praises! I bought this painting in 2008- yes it was expensive because it was an original, but I won't say how much it was because James would crap if he knew. We'll just say the price had three digits in it..... And no, I can't do watercolors worth a darn. I've taken classes, but I just never got the hang of the technique. So beautiful watercolor paintings not only astound me with their detail, but they also mystify me with their creation.
The other photo is one I took of Hairy recently when she was out on the deck, and I've used it on a previous post. It is just amazing to me how much the two "cats" resemble each other. Hairy could have easily posed for the original painting. I just had to share this with my other artsy, black cat loving friends!
Love the watercolor! And it does look just like your Hairy! She looks like a sweet cat! Thanks for sharing!!
ReplyDeleteThat's a beautiful watercolor. I particularly love the transparent planes in the blue background. They take it out of the ordinary for a portrait. The cat is awesome and so alive..I just want to hug him.
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely beautiful - lots of movement for a portrait and the shadowing is wonderful. The eyes are very thoughtful and the cat has a real sense of 'life' to it. Worth every penny you paid! Have you ever looked at the work of Lesley Ann Ivory? She does cats in watercolor and gouache and is my favorite cat artist.
ReplyDeleteI had not, but I looked her up. Saw she has a few art books of her cat paintings, I may look for them the next time I'm at the local Barnes...
ReplyDeleteThanks for the info!
Oh, I would recommend Lesley Anne Ivory as well. Love her work.
ReplyDeleteSandy, you can often get her books very reasonably on eBay. I've purchased several first editions for just a dollar or two. However, I've also purchased some from the not so local bookstore as well. Her calendars are lovely too. Sometimes I hate to turn the page.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the great ideas, I will most definitely look into getting some of her books. I loved what I saw on Amazon.com, so I think I will check eBay too!
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