Paws, Purrs, and Paint: Finding Calm with Studio Cat

I love my studio. It’s where I escape from the world — a calm little nook to play with new ideas, paint, and get lost in the flow. But the heart of the studio isn’t the shelves of paints or the rocking chair. It’s Lucifer, my Studio Cat.

Cif, as I often call him, brings so much warmth into the space. He lightens heavy days, reminds me to take breaks, and offers quiet companionship while I work. He’s even the inspiration for my Adventures of Studio Cat illustrations, where I capture his antics each month.

Most of the time, he’s curled up on my chair or stretched across my feet, purring away. He has a knack for claiming every piece of furniture I bring in (though sometimes he lets me borrow it). And when I start overworking, he’s quick to sit right on top of whatever I’m doing until I pause.

Lucifer is also deeply intuitive. He senses when my health is dipping — often before I do — and gently steers me toward rest. In his own way, he makes sure I don’t push myself too far.

Having him by my side has taught me to find joy in small things (like his love for cardboard boxes and bubble wrap) and to keep a balance between creating for work and creating for myself. He’s a daily reminder to slow down, play, and simply enjoy the process.

Over to you:

What makes your creative space feel cozy and calm?