Having used the Zentangle ® Method* as mental meditation for years, it was natural for Ellen to turn to drawing in this way while undergoing breast cancer treatment. The cats with whom she shares her home became her muse, as she studied their daily poses and tried to capture their spirit and energy. Soon her fun cat silhouettes were filled with patterns and colours of Zentangle-style art.

Starting out as a pencil sketch, then detailed with pen and ink, and finally coloured with watercolours, the drawings took several weeks to create. Designs feature many colourful motifs and intricate patterns, and were inspired by her long haired calico cat, Lilah, her first model! Subsequent drawings ensued to celebrate her other cats, Rowan, Sitka, Lily, and Chance.

The creation of these brightly coloured and playful drawings became art therapy. Ellen used art to get through tough treatment times. She created such beautiful illustrations to remain positive and captured the emotional energy she evoked to keep her spirits up!

Ellen titled this series of original illustrations Calico Cats. They are now beautifully rendered as digital prints and available for sale. Ellen will donate 1% of the profits from the annual sales of these prints to the BC Cancer Foundation to aid in early detection of cancer and research.

*The Zentangle Method is an easy-to-learn, relaxing, and fun way to create beautiful images by drawing structured patterns. Created by Rick Roberts and Maria Thomas, “Zentangle” is a registered trademark of Zentangle, Inc. Learn more at www.zentangle.com.