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A grandma in glasses paints green leaves on a canvas at an easel in a backyard while a calico cat sleeps on the grass. 21 / 32

Dottie Set Up Her Easel in the Yard. Marigold Picked a Spot Nearby.

AI imagecalico catpaintingbackyard

An easel stands in the grass, and on its canvas a wash of green leaves and golden light is slowly taking shape. Dottie, in her glasses and denim shirt with her silver braid draped forward, dabs her brush against a palette of greens with the calm focus of a long-time hobbyist. Marigold sprawls on the lawn beside the easel, her calico coat in swirls of orange and black, fast asleep with her face on her paws. A little drift of loose fur floats in the grass, and watering cans and potted plants fill the yard beyond.

Painting is a rewarding hobby at any age. It encourages patience, lets people see their surroundings more closely and can be a very relaxing way to spend an afternoon. If you paint with pets nearby, it helps to choose non-toxic art supplies and keep paints, thinners and brushes well out of reach. Some pigments and solvents can harm a cat who licks a paw or knocks over a jar. Water for rinsing brushes should be covered, and an old sheet over the grass can keep paint from being tracked around. If your cat gets into any art supplies, call your vet right away.

Marigold shows little interest in the artwork, though she is a loyal presence. She may be the muse, or simply a cat who found a soft patch of grass. Either way, Dottie is happy to have her there.

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