Cat Sanctuary

Just had to share this detail, from a new piece, listed last night on eBay; "The Salem Sanctuary for Wayward Cats; Ferals and Familiars Welcome". I had so much fun painting these eyes - a luminous cross between green and gold. :)

I know I'm not the only one who can relate to the concept of their home as a cat sanctuary, hehe....In fact, if John were not the voice of reason, I just know I'd turn into the neighborhood Cat Lady, lol....But since he IS the voice of reason, I'll content myself with our three, and the colony of several ferals our next door neighbor cares for. An older gentleman, and amazing gardener, he's given his garage over as shelter and his beautiful garden as playground to a number of strays. And although he takes them in for neutering and spaying as he can, more seem to arrive every spring - usually drop offs. Word gets out FAST when you feed strays, but I'm grateful someone is doing it. For the most part they avoid our yard, as the Aussies are a little intimidating. But I do love to see them in the garden next door, and occasionally sunning themselves by our koi pond.

I'm beginning another cat piece this week, inspired in part by our neighbor's efforts - a painting of St Gertrude of Nivelles, patron saint of cats and gardeners. I learned of her quite by accident, and knew immediately I had to paint her. She'll be the first canvas in quite a while, and I'm picturing her done in a whimsical, folk art style....

Cat lovers and gardeners stay tuned. :)

~ Carolee