In the heart of Split, Croatia, lives Ivana Filip—an artist, activist, and self-proclaimed ‘cat mama’ whose life is deeply intertwined with her feline companions. Through her art and daily interactions, she not only shares her home with seven cats but also creates with them, listens to them, and learns from them. For Ivana, cats are not just pets; they are spiritual beings, teachers, and co-creators in her journey.
A Life Shaped by Cats
Ivana’s deep connection with animals began in childhood when she and her brother rescued pigeons, cats, and dogs. Growing up surrounded by nature, she developed a profound understanding of animals—not just as companions but as beings with their own wisdom and spirit. Today, her life is a reflection of that bond, as she continues to communicate with her feline friends in ways both seen and unseen.
Cats as Creative Muses
As an artist, Ivana finds endless inspiration in her cats. From co-creating films featuring street cats to crafting art from their collected whiskers and fur, her work is a tribute to their presence in her life. Her creative process is a collaborative effort—her cats inspect, play, and even "advise" her on her projects, making them true artistic partners.
A Language Beyond Words
Ivana believes in a unique form of communication with cats—one that goes beyond words. She describes it as a kind of "telepathic WiFi," where thoughts and emotions flow between human and feline. She encourages cat lovers to try this quiet, heart-centered connection, believing it can deepen their relationship with their pets.
The Lessons Cats Teach Us
From observing and living with her cats, Ivana has learned some of life’s most valuable lessons: “Slow down. Sleep. Relax. Eat. Stretch regularly. Cuddle. Sharpen your whiskers. Smell. Jump! Jump higher! Growl and meow! Stay honest to yourself.” For her, cats are not just adorable companions but wise beings who remind us to embrace the present moment and care for ourselves and others.
Cats as Citizens of Public and Private Spaces
Ivana sees cats as rightful participants in both public and private spaces, reminding humans that cities were first home to plants and animals before us. She believes cats act as social connectors, bringing people together through shared care and compassion. Whether in animal shelters, feeding stations, or cat cafés, feline presence fosters human connection and kindness.
Spreading the Love for Cats
Ivana is excited about platforms like CatSwoppr that connect cat lovers and support feline welfare. She advocates for adoption over breeding and believes campaigns that teach people how to communicate with cats would be a game-changer in strengthening human-animal bonds.
Ivana’s work and philosophy are a heartwarming reminder of the special bond between humans and animals—one that transcends words and fills life with magic.
To see more of Ivana’s world of art, activism, and feline wisdom, follow her on Instagram at @ivanafilipstudio and explore her work on her website: https://ivanafilip.com/
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