Behind the Canvas #2 - The Story of Dikkie
Sometimes a painting starts with a spark of inspiration — and sometimes, it begins with a story that touches your heart.
A few months ago, I took part in a charity auction for Alpe d’HuZes, an incredible initiative that raises money for cancer research. The highest bidder didn’t just win a painting; they gave me a chance to create something meaningful.
The commission was simple — or so I thought. The client told me, “It’s not about the painting itself, it’s about supporting the cause.” He sent me one photo of his cat, Dikkie, and said: “Do whatever you like.”
That freedom felt like a gift. I had been wanting to create a portrait in the Renaissance style for a long time — something that carried a sense of timelessness, a little bit of mystery, and a lot of soul. So I dove in, inspired by the old masters. I used a similar technique: building depth with layers, then gently lifting out the light with a soft cloth and cotton swabs. Slowly, Dikkie began to emerge from the shadows — regal, calm, and full of character.
It felt magical to bring him to life this way. Knowing that the entire amount of this artwork went directly to charity made it even more special. This wasn’t just a painting; it was a gesture of kindness, a connection between art and purpose.
I’m proud of how Dikkie turned out — not just because of the way he looks, but because of what he represents.
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