Louis Wain Cats

Louis Wain (1860–1939) was an English artist best known for his imaginative and anthropomorphized illustrations of cats. His work featured cats in a variety of human-like situations—dressed in clothes, playing instruments, having tea parties—which made him a popular and influential figure in feline art.

Early in his career, Wain worked as an illustrator, creating drawings for newspapers and books. His fascination with cats is said to have deepened after he adopted a stray kitten named Peter, which comforted his sick wife. He began sketching Peter in playful poses, leading to a lifelong focus on cat illustrations.

Later in life, Wain suffered from mental illness, believed by some to be schizophrenia. His artwork became increasingly abstract and surreal, with cats featuring intricate, psychedelic patterns. Despite his struggles, his art remained influential, and he is now recognized as a key figure in both outsider art and popular illustration.

Have you seen any of his work? His later pieces are especially fascinating!