The Art of the Lounge Cat

An Interview With Shag

- Heidi Crabtree

The natural ease with which cats take over furniture has been evident for generations and is a subject of delight for artists. Whether appearing in a classic oil painting showing a mother and kittens sleeping on lush fabrics, or “space age” commercial advertising in the form of barware, TV lamps, or bubble bath decanters, cats lend an air of sophistication and mystery to any piece of artwork. No artist can convey a retro-modern feeling better than the artist known as Shag. You have likely seen his art. Other may imitate it, but only Shag can give it that perfection, that twist that cannot be duplicated. Imagine a pool, bachelor pad, or nightclub. Invite some fashionable friends and add highball glasses, an egg chair, and a spectacular view. Perhaps a “wolf” to sip a drink in a corner. Oh, and the cat. There must be a cat, or two or three, each noticeably aware of its own majestic presence.

Shag Shares His Views on Cats and Other Key Influences…