Neo Watercolour by Victoria Butterell

Cats and Dogs

….. here’s the start of a new series of watercolours. Some of you may remember my paintings of “Usyaka” from Alexandras blog, which through a quirk of fate, went on to help raise funds for Homeless Cats & Kittens in Montenegro (home of Usyaka) where there are no welfare organisations or facilities for homeless cats. Alexandra is very much on her own, trying to feed, and help these cats when they are sick, and even managing to neuter some…..

…..it is very much an uphill struggle and her recent blog post highlighted the local culture where it is common for these cats to be seen as a nuisance, ill-treated and even poisoned…..

…..there is little hope on the horizon that things will change, the Authorities have other priorities. It is a huge amount for one person and I really hope and pray that someone can come forward with some practical help and support for Alexandra ….

….. from here in the UK it is frustrating to know how to help. People ask me why I even want to help – Montenegro is so far away and has no real links to the UK.  I want to help Alexandra because her bravery and dedication against the hostility and huge obstacles she faces, every day, to help homeless cats & kittens, has been an inspiration to me, and a motivation through difficult times.  All I can do, to help, is paint ! and so I plan to produce 100 cat, “Cattitudes” (and some dog !) watercolours to raise more funds. These original paintings will be available at local Farmers Markets, and on display on saturdays (see upcoming events)…..

….. meanwhile if anyone can help or support Alexandra, please look here : www.usyaka.wordpress.com