The bright kimono was spread across the studio floor. Bella had chosen her place on it, and moving was apparently out of the question. Aga Niemiec decided to take the hint. Kimono-Cat began with a cat’s very firm opinion about where she wanted to sit.
Aga was living in Japan at the time, and Bella enjoyed keeping her company in the studio. This particular interruption became an opportunity: the artist picked up a brush, and the cat’s chosen resting place became the setting for a painting.
The oil on canvas brings Bella together with the rich colour and decorative pattern of the fabric. The contrast between her face and the lively surroundings gives the viewer different details to enjoy, while keeping the studio companion at the centre of the story.
Anyone who works with a cat nearby will recognise that creative plans can be revised without much warning. Sometimes the best response is simply to look closely at what the cat has contributed.
View the artwork details for Kimono-Cat
Explore the Winter Exhibition
The exhibition closes on Sunday 15 November 2026.
