Artists and their Cats, by Alison Nastasi, Chronicle Books, 112 pages, $21.50.
Artists and cats are a natural pairing.
Both strive for fiercely independent lives, enjoy the adulation of others and are prone to displays of arrogance and affection.
For the artists who may often find themselves immersed in the creative process late into the night, what better companion than the nocturnal activity of a feline.
Gathering photos of 48 different artists with their cats, Alison Nastasi presents them alphabetically. Each photograph is accompanied by a description of their relationship with the cat world. Some, like Chinese artist Ai Weiwei, share their home with many. In his case more than 40 cats roam his property.
Others have a solitary bond with a favourite feline, like Salvador Dali's pet, Babou, who was in fact a Colombian ocelot that enjoyed travel with its eccentric owner.
Cats Lions, by Mitsuaki Iwago, Chronicle Books, 144 pages, $33.50.
Every cat owner sees in their pet some of their feline ancestry.
The play hunting of toys, their supple stretches and fang-bearing yawns all point to their historical link to a wild past.
For wildlife photographer Mitsuaki Iwago the comparison of domestic cats and wild lions was an obvious pairing.
Iwago has combined photos of cats in all manner of activities with their wild counterparts in similar poses. From relaxing to carrying their young kittens, Iwago presents two photographs on facing pages for the best effect in every situation.
The pictures capture each one in beautiful scenes that show us they are all amazing animals no matter their size. Cat lovers will love the way Iwago has brought the domestic and wild environments together.
