While cats are often pitted against the dog – “man’s best friend” – as the less friendly, less reliable furry companion, those who have a feline friend know this to be slander. Owner of two cats and passionate drawer of the four legged creatures, Gomatsu, knows as much. In his charming illustrations, he uses felines as a way to express “the joys and sorrows of life in a humorous way”. Throwing their owner a birthday party, hiding in a cupboard, or even having a soak in the hot tub, Gomatu’s cats are a reminder of life’s lighter (and sillier) moments. “It’s good to learn innocence from a fool,” he adds.
Prior to becoming an illustrator, Gomatsu had what he describe as an “ordinary” office job, and drawing was simply a hobby. It was after wanting to do something “more worthwhile and fun in life” that Gomatsu then decided to turn his love of drawing cats into a profession. Now, he illustrates for publications, completes commissions and even makes and sells his own merchandise. Looking to the future, Gomatsu has plans to publish a book full of his work. In the meantime, however, he is going to continue drawing his beloved cats.
