Kitchi, cat of many talents

Cats of the Zone

Rebecca Anderson and her calico cat share more than just living quarters at Carleton Artist Lofts. They also share some keen intuition and an eye for style. As a photographer, Rebecca does professional and theatrical headshots and creative portraiture with a special focus on gender transformation (La Femme Mystique). Whenever Rebecca welcomes a client into her studio, Kitchi watches the makeup and wardrobe process intently, often expressing her opinion. Then, given a chance, she'll slip into the frame herself for a few shots. Afterward, she'll show off some tricks: she can sit, roll over, and twirl in a circle. "She's very high-spirited and talkative," says Rebecca. "Calico tortoiseshells are known for their 'tortitude.'"

Kitchi also enjoys modeling Rebecca's new line of beaded cat necklaces. As a jewelry designer, Rebecca draws inspiration from many sources: beads and macrame, kinetic sculpture, botanical and folk art. See her work— mostly for humans— on Etsy and Celestienne.com or in the Art Crawl this month. She'll be showing at Carleton Lofts (although she's not in the directory this time). Another Crawl tip from Kitchi: on Saturday afternoon, check out the Purrniture store in the Dow Building across the street. Their multi-level carpet-covered feline palaces all come with a catisfaction guarantee. Here, Kitchi poses on her own five-foot tower.

Was this cat Japanese in a previous life? It's possible, given her affinity for ink-brush drawing and her spooky talent for percussion. No kidding! Even if you've sworn off cat videos, make an exception for Taiko Drummer Kitchi and see how a room-divider screen becomes a booming percussion instrument. TaikoArts Midwest, take note!

For more on Rebecca's work, see Instagram: @celestiennejewelry, @mystiquelafemme,
@architecturalimagery, @_rebeccalynn_, and @studiorebeccalynn.