Niki Anderson ~ Author & Speaker
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A Likely Pair
| Posted on May 24, 2010 at 1:39 PM |
Long ago expired computer, the Apple PC on which I wrote my first two cat books in 1995 and 1996.
Long ago kitten Myles, now 14!
Designing a logo that communicates a passion for balance with the love of cats wasn't hard for a young illustrator friend, Melissa McConnell.
In the animal kingdom, cats are the kings and queens of balance. Who walks a fenceline with greater ease than a cat? Who always lands on its feet in a fall? Who but the cat? The topic of lifestyle balance and the image of a cat are a likely pair.
I asked Melissa McConnell to draw a couple cat pictures that merge the message of lifestyle balance with the cat's ability and ease at balancing. I love her perceptions. View the samples below.
You're invited to vote on which one best portrays the concept of balance. If you care to weigh in, use the comment box.
I love the spirit of joy in this one above. How about you?
I like the proportions of this image and the cat's grace.
Thanks, Melissa!
Which drawing do you prefer and why?
Use the comment box.
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18 Comments
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Judy Palpant
12:44 AM on June 03, 2010
Niki,
I really like the first drawing with the cat balancing on one leg. It is winsome and compelling. The topic of balance needs the spirit of joy that is so evident here.
Judy
I really like the first drawing with the cat balancing on one leg. It is winsome and compelling. The topic of balance needs the spirit of joy that is so evident here.
Judy
Reply
Debbi Vaughn
01:18 AM on June 03, 2010
Love the second one. It's more catlike and elegant. The first one makes me think of the circus.
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Janet
05:13 PM on June 03, 2010
I like the playful spirit of the first one, but it's also unrealistic that a cat would stand that way. Since achieving balance feels impossible for some, it might not subtly convey what you want.
On the other hand, the second one doesn't have the playful spirit of the first.
In other words, I'm torn.
If pressed, I'd vote for the first one.
On the other hand, the second one doesn't have the playful spirit of the first.
In other words, I'm torn.
If pressed, I'd vote for the first one.
Reply
Laura
07:08 PM on June 03, 2010
I like the second picture where the cat has all 4 feet on the ground better. I guess I just like it more realistic, but they both reflect the idea of "balance". I look forward to another one of your books. I enjoy them so much! :0)
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Laura Frantz
08:45 PM on June 03, 2010
Love both of them but the top one seems to speak of not only balance but JOY! Thanks for sharing - it gives you a lift just looking at the lovely art!
I'm casting my vote for the second one, because while I like the "cute" appeal of the first, I think the second better conveys the meaning and purpose of the blog. It makes it REAL, because everyone has watched a cat tiptoe across the top of a fence.
Hi Niki - I vote for #1 because of the happy expression on the kitty's face. The picture is just so so joyful to me. True, #2 is more realistic and very graceful - reminds me of one of my ferals patrolling the fence, but what you are striving for? Imagination of reality?
Monica
Monica
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Ilona Wiley
11:29 AM on June 09, 2010
I like the second picture. The cat walking on the fence seems more realistic to me; that really is what they look like when they walk on the fence. Doesn't it just amaze you how balanced they are when they walk on a fence!
Judy Palpant says...
Niki,
I really like the first drawing with the cat balancing on one leg. It is winsome and compelling. The topic of balance needs the spirit of joy that is so evident here.
Judy
I agree about the spirit of joy. When we were kids, findiing something on which to balance was always a welcome challenge and a lot of fun. Thanks for commenting.
Debbi Vaughn says...
Love the second one. It's more catlike and elegant. The first one makes me think of the circus.
I agree that the 2nd drawing is the realistic one. The second of the dancing cat takes on more of a caracature.
Janet says...
I like the playful spirit of the first one, but it's also unrealistic that a cat would stand that way. Since achieving balance feels impossible for some, it might not subtly convey what you want.
On the other hand, the second one doesn't have the playful spirit of the first.
In other words, I'm torn.
If pressed, I'd vote for the first one.
Interesting that despite the fact that the first one is less realistic, "if pressed" you'd vote for it. Perhaps that signals our universal desire for joy, and accomplishing balance while also having fun. Thanks for thinking through your selection.
Laura says...
I like the second picture where the cat has all 4 feet on the ground better. I guess I just like it more realistic, but they both reflect the idea of "balance". I look forward to another one of your books. I enjoy them so much! :0)
Laura, good point. It does require all four feet (all our wisest faculties added to God's guidance) to walk in lifestyle balance. Others are also mentioning the "reality" of the 2nd one and the "delight" communicated in the first.
Niki Turner says...
I'm casting my vote for the second one, because while I like the "cute" appeal of the first, I think the second better conveys the meaning and purpose of the blog. It makes it REAL, because everyone has watched a cat tiptoe across the top of a fence.
So true, Niki. Even a "not so much" cat lover mentioned she'd always been intrigued by the grace of a cat walking a fenceline. And you're right. The picture should convey the emphasis of my passion for spiritual and lifestyle balance as realistically as possible.
legal4all@aol.com says...
Hi Niki - I vote for #1 because of the happy expression on the kitty's face. The picture is just so so joyful to me. True, #2 is more realistic and very graceful - reminds me of one of my ferals patrolling the fence, but what you are striving for? Imagination of reality?
Monica
Monica, you asked the key question. What am I striving for? A drawing that displays artiistically my enjoyment of cats (3 cats books) and my desire to teach the importance of God-centered lifestyle balance. In fact, I've found it impossible to affect lifestyle balance without input from God and his Word. Sure appreciate your comment.
Laura Frantz says...
Love both of them but the top one seems to speak of not only balance but JOY! Thanks for sharing - it gives you a lift just looking at the lovely art!
I've been surprised that the reaction to the two drawings is clearly divided. Observations seem to be in agreement that the joyful kitty is fun, cute, and amusing, and the 2nd is more true to life. By all means, lifestyle balance should be practical as well as joyful.
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