I'm so proud and relieved and happy and exhausted and everything else to have finally finished my African Wildcat! This was probably THE most challenging watercolour piece I've ever taken on. All that furrrrrrr, and an "ugly phase" that was nearly the end of me...
I captured the reference photo on our family camping trip in the Kruger National Park, and immediately knew that I would paint it. The experience was so special! Like my hubby said, watching me add the finishing touches to the wildcat: "I can still feel how I felt when we saw it...".
We had just set up camp in Satara, when this incredible cat just casually strolled past. It was the epitome of power: Strutting past with sheer confidence in its unrivalled prowess, on muscular, almost unnaturally long legs! It was surreal!
It is very special - rewarding, in fact - to finally see the photo come to life as a super-realistic watercolour painting!
As usual, I'm opening the floor to title suggestions for this kittycat. The best idea will win a set of three of my gorgeous, proudly South African Downloadable Wall Art!
In the meantime, enjoy some behind-the-scenes pics of the creation of "Kitty":
