Cat Painting ‘Duet of White and Black’ by Ira Whittaker
Our artwork of the week is cat painting ‘Duet of White and Black’ by artist Ira Whittaker. It is a neutral toned oil painting, on canvas and is ready to hang. It is a quirky artwork, with two cats strutting along and dominating the whole canvas.
Ira created the piece on a box canvas at 30 x 49 x 2cm slimline box canvas. It is ready to hang, but could also be framed.
In Ira’s Words
My painting depicts two cats, one half white and the other half black, going side by side. The contrast between their fur creates a striking visual balance, symbolizing the harmony between opposites.
The white cat has bright, inquisitive eyes, while the black cat gazes calmly into the distance. I have created the background in a blend of warm tones, enhancing the intimate atmosphere of the scene. The brushstrokes and palette knife texture are soft and fluid, capturing the gentle, serene nature of the cats.
QUESTIONS TO THE ARTIST
Firstly, I love your new artwork ‘Duet of White and Black’. Is the scene imaginary or real life/images?
The scene is taken from my observations. I take many photos from life and this is not an exception. One of my favourite themes is cats. Having a plot, I transfer the idea to the canvas. The background often appears in the process of work, but the cats are real.
I see you have a lot of paintings of cats. Are they your favourite subject? And if so, why?
Cats are unique in their nature. I feel them as myself. They are independent, delightful, gentle, smart, sensual and have many other positive qualities. I admire them and really love to draw them.
Is oil your preferred medium to use? and if so, why?
Yes, oil is my favourite material. I have previously tried to paint with different mediums, but my choice is oil. I like its texture and its ability to mix well with other colours. Also, it has a long drying time which allows me to make changes and additions. I paint with a palette knife using heavy texture, which gives a unique effect. For me, oil is incomparable.
Lastly, which artists inspire you?
You will be surprised but I am impressed by surrealist artists, especially the paintings of Rene Magritte. I have seen a lot of his works in the flesh, which left a great impression on me. They are meditative.
About the Artist
Art has been a big part of my life for many years. I spent those years practicing my craft and learning new techniques, often painting on wood, glass, and textiles. Lately, I’ve been painting on canvas using oil paints. Though these mediums are my current focus, I still love to experiment with other styles and painting methods, because for me, art is a journey. I am always evolving, learning and getting inspired by new things.
My favourite part about making art is the process. I let my intuition lead me and get inspired. To me, art is a spiritual experience: when I am painting, I feel connected to the world and to myself. Painting allows me to process my emotions, discover new things about myself, and grow creatively.
I paint what I feel, so I approach the canvas with love and kindness, so that the finished painting will carry within itself that intention to create joy and light. All of us connect with certain works because they speak to our experience or temperament, or simply make us feel good. I make art to make others feel good. My belief is that once a painting is finished, it already has an owner, the two just have to meet.
My paintings are in private collections all over the world -UK, USA, Canada, Europa, Asia
