Super-cute quirky cats by artist Terry Runyan

Today, I am pleased to introduce artist Terry Runyan to you. I first discovered Terry’s work on Pinterest and instantly fell in love with her cute and quirky cats.

Terry can you tell us a bit about yourself and why you decided to become an artist?

I have always been an animal lover with an interest in art. My mother was a landscape/still life artist and I remember painting dog portraits along side her when I was young. My first pet was a cat, although I ventured off to horse and dog obsessions for a time.

I got away from creating art for several years before going back to school to study illustration. I got a job with Hallmark right out of college and have worked there since 1986. Hallmark has been, and continues to be, an incredible place to work! I create art every day and often include animals in my work. I also have a home studio where I create all my personal work. This work can be found on my website and links.

Some of your illustrations feature cats. Do you have a special relation with cats? Any cats of your own?

I’ve always had a cat (or cats) as “room mates” since leaving college. I can’t imagine a home without them!! Right now I have two cats, Tucker and Rylee, who are brother and sister. They are continual entertainment and great company! They can usually be found in my studio sleeping on the table where I am working. Nice to have them within hands reach! They are such great inspiration too! I love how independent they are yet so attached to us humans. They are cry babies when they aren’t getting the attention they require. I usually give in to their requests and always feel my happiest when hugging on them.

What is your favorite cat illustration from your work?

I’m continually exploring cats in my work. I’m not sure I have a favorite, although my CAT TREE illustration seems popular with the cat lovers out there. I enjoy experimenting with cat characters and sometimes I’m surprised by what shows up in my work. Usually my cat illustrations have a bit of an attitude. Anyone who lives with cats will understand why. They are the one’s in charge after all! 😉

Terry’s amazing work features not only cats, but also dogs, other animals and people. You can find Terry’s work at her website and also at Society 6.

I couldn’t finish this post without thanking Terry for accepting my invitation for this interview and also without featuring my favorite illustration from her work. It’s this awesome illustration appropriately titled Obsessive Cat Disorder:

Check out some of the cool gifts featuring Terry’s work that you can buy at Society 6:

So, did you already know Terry’s work?