The Neon Cats: A Reflection on Modern Existence
- Joni Belaruski

- Feb 10
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 13
The Unconventional Presence of Cats in Art
The cats in my work aren’t pets. They’re not cute, comforting, or there to soften the edges. They’re alert, wired, and a wee bit unhinged.
They started appearing almost by accident — a shape I kept sketching without thinking too hard about why. Over time, they’ve become a constant. A kind of recurring presence, very much like my crows.
Cats already exist in that in-between space. Domestic, but never fully obedient. Affectionate, but on their own terms. They move through the world like they know something we don’t. When I paint them in neon, that tension sharpens.
The Allure of Neon
Neon is artificial. It’s nightlife, signage, warning lights, pleasure, and danger at the same time. It doesn’t belong to nature, but it dominates our cities after dark. Putting a cat inside that glow turns it into something heightened — overstimulated, hyper-aware, almost radioactive.
These cats feel like creatures built for the modern world. Awake at night. Watching everything. Absorbing noise, screens, chaos. Their eyes are always open, like they’re tuned into a frequency just beyond ours.
The Intersection of Art and Emotion
There’s humour in them too. A bit of menace, a bit of swagger with a lot of main-character energy! They’re not here to soothe. They’re here to stay awake.
In my artistic journey, I often find myself reflecting on the relationship between art and emotion. Every brushstroke carries a piece of my experience. Each cat embodies a feeling, a moment, a thought. They remind me of the chaos and beauty of life.
The Message Behind the Cats
What do these neon cats say about us? Perhaps they reflect our own struggles. In a world that demands we conform, they stand out. They challenge the norms and embrace their individuality. Just like us, they navigate the complexities of existence.
I think about the stories we tell ourselves. The narratives we create to make sense of our lives. My cats, with their vibrant hues and electric energy, are a reminder to embrace our true selves. They invite us to confront our fears and desires, to be bold and unapologetic.
A Personal Connection
As I paint, I often wonder about the viewer's perspective. What do they see? How do they interpret my work? Art is a dialogue, a conversation between the creator and the observer. I hope my neon cats resonate with others, sparking thoughts and emotions that linger long after the viewing.
In this journey, I aim to share my unique artistic vision with a wider audience. My goal is to grow my presence as a London-based artist and illustrator. I want to sell original artworks and prints that resonate with art lovers.
The Future of My Art
As I look ahead, I’m excited about the possibilities. I envision creating even more distinctive pieces that capture the essence of modern life. My cats will continue to evolve, reflecting the ever-changing landscape of our world.
I invite you to join me on this journey. Let’s explore the vibrant, chaotic, and beautiful world together.





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