Masters, Companions, and Reflections
Sometimes art begins with gratitude, sometimes with love, and sometimes with a quiet protest. This series grew out of all three.
The first painting takes inspiration from the Good Shepherd. In it, a dog rests gently in the arms of a figure of compassion. Dogs have long been called man’s best friend, and for good reason — their loyalty and forgiveness feel almost divine. Georgie or Gigi, now 9 years old, has been a constant presence, a reminder of that kind of love. The image is meant to show how a dog, in its simplicity and devotion, reflects something sacred.
The second painting reimagines the Mona Lisa, but this time she holds a cat. Cats are often seen as the companions of quiet, thoughtful women — mysterious, independent, yet deeply affectionate in their own way. Maxx, an adopted cat who quickly became family, inspired this choice. His playful spirit and calm presence fit naturally into Mona Lisa’s enigmatic smile, as if she too might have been a cat lover.
The third painting carries a sharper message. In place of the ermine in Lady with an Ermine, a crocodile — the “Buwaya” of the Nation — takes its place. In local culture, the crocodile has become a symbol of greed and corruption. The lady’s poker face, paired with the reptile, is a reflection of politicians who exploit power, and of the silence or support that often surrounds them. It’s a cry against complicity, a reminder that corruption is not only about those in office but also about those who enable it.
Together, these three works weave personal stories with cultural symbols. They honor loyal companions, celebrate everyday bonds, and confront uncomfortable truths. It’s a series that looks back at the masters with respect, while also speaking to the present — to the animals who shape our lives, and to the realities that shape our nation.
