Family Activity Inspired by Karel Appel's Cats, 1978

Karel Appel was a Dutch artist whose work is characterized by his use of bright colors, simple forms, and expressive brushstrokes. His work emphasized a move away from formality in artmaking and an emphasis on creating a sense of dynamic energy.

In this moderately easy Family Activity, we'll walk you through how to make a portrait of your pet (real or imagined) inspired by Appel's Cats, 1978.

Karel Appel (Dutch, 1921–2006). *Walking Cat* from the portfolio *Cats*, 1978. Color lithograph on Arches paper, edition 115/125, 24 5/8 x 32 1/4 inches (62.6 x 81.9 cm). Collection Albright-Knox Art Gallery, Buffalo, New York; Gift of C. Stanley Waggoner, M.D., 1979 (P1979:28.2). © Karel Appel Foundation / Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York

Karel Appel (Dutch, 1921–2006). *Sunshine Cat* from the portfolio *Cats*, 1978. Color lithograph on Arches paper, edition 115/125, 24 5/8 x 32 1/4 inches (62.6 x 81.9 cm). Collection Albright-Knox Art Gallery, Buffalo, New York; Gift of C. Stanley Waggoner, M.D., 1979 (P1979:28.17). © Karel Appel Foundation / Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York

Getting Started

How do the colors in the images above make you feel?
How do you think the cats in the paintings feel?
What do you think the cats are doing?

Materials

Paper
Paints
Paintbrushes
Mixing tray
Water cup
Sharpie/marker pen to draw outline with
Alternatives to paint: markers or crayons

Artmaking Activity

1. Pick your pet.

Things to consider in the design of your artwork:

What do you want your pet to be doing?
How is your pet feeling?
Where is your pet?
What colors would highlight what your pet is feeling?

Tip: Find an image of an animal on the internet or take a quick photo to work from like this snap below.

An orange cat curled up in a gray cat bed on a wooden floor

2. Draw your pet on the paper with a sharpie or dark marker pen, use quick, dynamic lines.

3. Pick a base color for your background and another for the body of your pet.

4. Draw or paint the body of your pet using quick lines or stripes.

Tips: Use different kinds of lines: thick lines, thin lines, curvy lines, or any other kind of lines you like! Try using a variety of colors that capture your pet’s emotions. Karel Appel focused on capturing the energy of cats, not creating a realistic picture.