“Cat Herman” – Original Painting by Marina Stognieva

The Story Behind the Painting

“Cat Herman” is an original painting by Ukrainian artist Marina Stognieva. The work is painted in oil on canvas board and measures 30 × 40 cm.

The main character of the painting is Herman the cat. In this work, Marina Stognieva approaches animal portraiture as a way to capture not only the appearance of the subject, but also his personality, character, and distinctive expression.

General view of the painting “Cat Herman”. Oil on canvas board, 30 × 40 cm.

The portrait is built around the character of the subject — his eyes, facial expression, and distinctive features. These details create a sense of living presence and allow Herman to be perceived not as a general image of a cat, but as an individual with his own temperament.

Herman posing beside his portrait while the painting was still in progress.

The photograph from the creative process adds a personal dimension to the story of the work. The real subject can be seen next to his unfinished portrait, revealing the direct connection between life and the painted image and showing how Herman’s character gradually emerged on the surface.

Detail of “Cat Herman” — the eyes, face, and texture of the oil painting.

Particular attention is given to the eyes, which become the psychological centre of the portrait. Oil paint allows the artist to work with depth of colour, subtle transitions of light and shadow, and the texture of the fur, strengthening the individuality of the subject.

Marina Stognieva beside the completed painting “Cat Herman”, still wearing her working apron after finishing the portrait.

This photograph completes the story of the work — from the living subject and the painting process to the finished portrait. It preserves not only the final result, but also a moment from the artist’s creative process.

“Cat Herman” is an intimate animal portrait in which character, gaze, and individuality become central. The painting continues Marina Stognieva’s exploration of the emotional connection between people and their companion animals.

→ Learn more about the artist

→ Visit the gallery

Artwork Details

Original Artwork & Collectible Fine Art Prints

The painting “Cat Herman” is an original artwork by Marina Stognieva, created by hand in oil on canvas board and existing as a unique one-of-a-kind work.

Collectible Fine Art Prints personally signed by Marina Stognieva may also be available for selected works. Available formats, materials, prices, and other details can be discussed before ordering.

Payment & Worldwide Shipping

Payment can be made via PayPal, bank transfer, or another agreed method.

Worldwide shipping is available. Shipping costs and estimated delivery times are calculated individually depending on the destination and order details.

The painting is carefully packaged to protect the painted surface and ensure safe transportation. All purchase, payment, packaging, and international shipping details can be discussed directly with the artist before ordering.

“In animal portraits, the gaze is especially important to me. It is often through the eyes that character reveals itself most clearly. Herman had his own mood and presence, and I wanted to preserve that in the painting.”

— Marina Stognieva