My Studio Assistant

Dear Departed Katie and Topsy

Until last August, I had been without a pet since my last cat passed away 5 years ago, I was so bereft that I felt I couldn't go through the end of a pet's life ever again.  Anyway, my asthma had greatly improved since no longer owning a cat.

But, things change, I was introduced to a lovely cat that a neighbour of mine has, I looked after him in my own home while she had some plumbing work done and he was such wonderful company!  He was affectionate, outgoing, playful and even slept under the covers in bed with me.  He has the softest fur you can imagine and, the odd thing, it is curly!

It turns out that this cat is a breed called Devon Rex and his behaviour is very typical.  They are very human-centred, playful, intelligent, great climbers, eager to be part of whatever activity is going on.  In a way, their traits remind me more of dogs.

They look very beautiful, they have slender bodies with long legs, pretty triangular faces and huge ears and of course, this amazing curly coat.  Oh and this coat doesn't affect my asthma!

Anyway, my neighbour invited me to visit a friend of hers who breeds Devons as she had a litter of kittens who needed socialising before they were rehomed.  This breeder is a wonderful lady and cares very much for her animals.  She has many retired older cats who she is caring for in their dotage and she very carefully selects healthy traits and colours when she decides to breed a new litter.

Devon Rex Kittens

The kittens are adorable!  They have very little in the way of coat, almost bald and their ears seem even bigger on their heads, making them seem alien-like.  Of course I put my name down for a kitten (need you ask?)!

A week before the kitten was to take up residence with me, I got a phone call from the breeder.  There was an 8yr old Devon Rex at the local cat rescue centre and would I please adopt her instead of the kitten? 

My Studio Assistant, D'arcy

And that is how D'arcy came into my life - it was love at first sight, she loved me and I loved her and we have been inseparable since.  She now comes and sleeps in the studio with me, or sometimes she sits on my shoulder and lets me know what she thinks about my work.