Milena Skulimowska Visual Artist

From Whiskers to Acrylics: My Journey as a Cat Portrait Artist

By

Milena Skulimowska

collage of cat paintings

As the winter sun streams through my Southend-on-Sea studio window, I often find myself reflecting on the path that led me to become a specialist in feline portraiture. As a Polish-British artist with a rather unconventional background – including a PhD in History – my journey into the world of cat art has been as unique as the portraits I create.

The Magic of Acrylics in Feline Art

A close-up macro photograph of well-used paint brushes resting on an artist's palette. The palette shows rich textures of dried and fresh acrylic paint in various colors including vibrant red, royal blue, purple, yellow, and turquoise. The brushes are arranged diagonally across the image, with their natural bristles showing signs of use. The wooden handles create a warm contrast against the colorful paint textures.
There’s something magical about a well-used palette. The way acrylics layer and blend, creating unexpected color harmonies that inspire new artistic directions. Each dried paint texture tells the story of previous paintings, while fresh colors await their turn to bring new visions to life.

My medium of choice is acrylic paint, and for good reason. The versatility of acrylics allows me to capture every nuance of a cat’s character – from the subtle sheen of their fur to the depth in their eyes. Through careful layering and mixed media techniques, I can achieve both the bold, vibrant colors that bring energy to a portrait and the delicate details that make each piece uniquely personal.

The choice of acrylics isn’t just about technique; it’s about bringing each cat’s personality to life. The quick-drying nature of the medium allows me to work in layers, building up textures that capture the complex nature of fur and whiskers. Whether I’m working on a miniature piece (12.5cm x 17.5cm) or a larger statement portrait (up to 30x40cm), acrylics give me the precision and control needed to honor each feline subject.

Finding My Artistic Voice

While I’m largely self-taught as an artist, my academic background has unexpectedly enriched my approach to pet portraiture. It’s taught me to look deeper, to see not just the physical features of each cat, but to capture their presence within their family – their stories, their personalities, their place in their humans’ hearts.

Every week, as I update my collection with new artwork, I find myself drawn deeper into the fascinating world of feline expression. Each cat I paint has its own story, its own character, and finding ways to translate that onto canvas has become my passion.

A black cat with striking golden eyes sits elegantly on a wooden floor against a vibrant painting background. The painting features bright red poppies and green foliage on a turquoise background. The cat's fur is glossy black, and it has distinctive white paws. The composition captures the intersection of feline grace and artistic creativity in a studio setting.
A glimpse into my creative process – where nature-inspired art meets my four-pawed muse. The contrast between my black cat’s elegant form and the vibrant red poppies perfectly captures the essence of my artistic style.

The Local Connection

Being based in Southend-on-Sea has profoundly influenced my work. The local art community, from the Beecroft Art Gallery to the Leigh Art Trail events, has provided endless inspiration and support. There’s something about the coastal atmosphere that adds a unique dimension to my artwork – perhaps it’s the quality of light, or the way the sea air seems to add an extra layer of mystery to each feline subject.

A serene sunset view at Southend-on-Sea beach, featuring wooden groynes stretching into calm waters. The sky transitions from turquoise to golden yellow, with silhouettes of sailboats anchored along the horizon. Sun rays create lens flares across the pebbly beach, while the low tide reveals textured shoreline. The composition captures the peaceful evening atmosphere of the Essex coast.
As an artist based in Southend-on-Sea, I find endless inspiration in these golden moments. The way the setting sun paints the sky in turquoise and amber, while sailboats dot the horizon like brushstrokes on nature’s canvas. These are the colors and moments that influence my artwork, bringing a piece of coastal magic into every painting.

Looking Forward

Explore my Cat Artwork Portfolio. As you browse, imagine the stories behind each pair of whiskers and every glint in those mischievous eyes. Whether you’re looking for a piece to add warmth to your home or a special gift for a fellow cat enthusiast, I hope my art brings a touch of joy and wonder to your day.

Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or would like to commission a custom portrait of your own furry companion. I’m always excited to meet new cats and bring their unique personalities to life on canvas. Thank you for visiting my gallery, and I hope you find something that resonates with your love for these incredible creatures!

Next week, I’ll be sharing more about my creative process and the specific techniques I use to capture those perfect feline expressions. Until then, I’d love to hear about your cats – what makes them unique? What expressions would you want to capture in a portrait?

Here are a few pieces of my cat artwork available in my Etsy Shop:

  • Painting titled 'Winter's Embrace' featuring a black cat curled up among birch trees with swirling snow, displayed in a modern living space. The artwork uses soft blues, warm browns, and whites to create a serene winter scene.
    Discover the calm of winter with ‘Winter’s Embrace’ – a captivating blend of nature and whimsy.
  • Painting titled 'Eternal Whisper' featuring a white cat nestled among lush green leaves and dandelion puffs, displayed in a modern living space. The artwork uses greens and whites to create a calming atmosphere.
    Bring a sense of calm to your space with ‘Eternal Whisper.’ Perfect for those who appreciate the quiet beauty of nature
  • Painting titled 'Secret Guardian' featuring a black cat nestled among vibrant red poppies and lush green foliage, displayed in a modern living space. The artwork uses bold colors and a vertical composition to create a striking visual impact.
    Add a touch of intrigue to your space with ‘Secret Guardian.’ Perfect for those who appreciate bold colors and mysterious charm.
  • Painting titled 'Sunlit Sanctuary' featuring a ginger cat nestled among vibrant sunflowers and lush green foliage, displayed in a modern living space. The artwork uses bold colors and a vertical composition to create a lively visual impact.
    Brighten your space with ‘Sunlit Sanctuary.’ Perfect for those who love bold colors and joyful themes.

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