🐾 In the heart of my creative universe resides Hala, my cherished tortoiseshell Siamese cat. More than just a companion, she embodies joy, hope, and serves as a constant muse and confidante.
It’s with great honor that I share “Hala, the Studio Cat,” her story that pays tribute to our intertwined journey. This story has found its home within the pages of the “Cat Anthology,” a compilation that celebrates the profound ways cats influence our lives, thanks to the wonderful efforts of Aphrodite Delaguiado, the founder and creative director of Illographo Press.
🐾 The anthology is a global collection of stories, all from the cat’s perspective, curated with care and passion. Under Aphrodite’s editorial guidance, the anthology has become a celebration of feline companionship, showcasing the diverse and profound impact these remarkable creatures have on our lives.
Each contribution, including my own, provides a unique window into the intimate bond between cats and their human counterparts.
🐾 Many of you may be familiar with Hala, especially if you’ve visited my studio, whether it was located in Upstate New York or now in South Carolina. She has been a steadfast companion in both my studio and personal life for nearly 17 years, witnessing the evolution of my work and sharing in the myriad moments that make up our days.
Two years ago, we braced for the possibility of saying goodbye, a thought that was unbearable. It was during this scary time that “Hala, the Studio Cat” was born, a story penned from her perspective, reflecting on our shared experiences and adventures.
Miraculously, Hala bounced back and is now flourishing in her 17th year, continuing to inspire those around her and leave paw prints on all my work.
Aphrodite and the team at Illographo Press have been instrumental in bringing this collection to life, ensuring that stories like Hala’s reach hearts around the world. The dedication and love poured into this anthology are evident in every page, every story.
🐾 Discover “Hala, the Studio Cat” and more in the “Cat Anthology”

Thank you for joining us on this remarkable journey. A special thanks to Aphrodite Delaguiado and everyone at Illographo Press for their commitment to sharing these tales of feline friendship and creativity.
May Hala’s story, along with the many others in this anthology, inspire you to find the extraordinary in the everyday and recognize the muses that grace our lives on four paws.