Orange Tabby Ringtail Cat Painting

As a former pianist and teacher who transitioned to Art after a strained finger forced me from the concert stage, I can say that the creative spark finds a way to go on. Just let it burn. My Dad, a commercial artist/illustrator, had passed on and left me his supplies. I took his signature (Zuk) a shortened version of the family name (Zukoff) and began my journey. After studying various mediums I entered my first art show and won First Place in Oils. A new career was born! I also studied Advertising Art and Design at SUNY and began doing pen & ink renderings for real estate ads, magazine illustrations and pet portraits. I soon realized that my love for cats was the constant evolving inspiration for most of my work. I particularly enjoy sharing their beauty, mystery and whimsical nature. While my work is realistic, I enjoy adding a bit of humor (realism with a twist). Animals (especially cats) are my favorite subjects and I hope people who see my work are inspired to treat them all with kindness and dignity.