‘Before and after' images, artist portraits and further behind the scenes media is available HERE.
Thirteen rescue dogs and cats from leading animal welfare charity Battersea are stepping into the spotlight after being transformed into playful works of art in a new collaboration celebrating ‘perfectly imperfect’ pets.
Wiltshire-based artist Harriet Lowther, known for her quirky, expressive illustrations, spent time at Battersea earlier this year getting to know the dogs and cats in the charity’s care. Inspired by their unique traits and individual stories, Harriet has created a series of colourful ‘pawtraits’ that bring their personalities to life.
The one-of-a-kind rescues will star across a limited-edition clothing collection on the Battersea x Teemill store, launching on 15 May.
Many of the animals Harriet met can sometimes be overlooked by potential owners due to factors such as their age, appearance or misconceptions about rescue animals – but this collection is giving them their moment to shine.
One affectionate feline featuring in the collection is five-year-old Duckling, a black-and-white cat who had been looking for a home for 148 days – almost five times the average for a Battersea cat. Duckling was rehomed from Battersea as a kitten before returning five years later due to a change in her owner’s circumstances. Battersea staff say that black-and-white cats are often less sought after, but that didn’t stop Duckling from catching Harriet’s eye.
“Deciding who to draw for this collaboration was tough, but Duckling really stood out to me. She had such striking looks and a playful way about her - rolling onto her back and stretching out to show off her tummy. She completely won me over.”
As well as cats like Duckling, Harriet’s designs were also inspired by Battersea dogs such as Beagle Foxhound cross Harold, who experienced hardship early in life. At just four-and-a-half months old, Harold was rescued from a puppy farm alongside his siblings. When he arrived at Battersea, he was unwell and in need of urgent veterinary care.
With time, treatment and patience, Harold regained his strength and was eventually rehomed. Although he took a while to settle in, having never lived in a home environment before, Battersea’s behaviour team stepped in to provide bespoke training to help him thrive. He now lives happily in North London with his three cat siblings - but still returns to Battersea as a part-time ‘office assistant’, enjoying the dog friendly office culture.
Harriet said stories like Duckling and Harold left a lasting impression.
“When I visited Battersea, I met so many animals whose personalities really stood out. I wanted my designs to celebrate those quirks and give them the spotlight they deserve, showing that what makes them different is exactly what makes them special.”
Battersea cares for thousands of dogs and cats each year, providing expert support until they can find new homes.
Sorrel Magenta, Rehoming & Welfare Manager, said: “At Battersea, we care for many animals who may have been overlooked or have had a difficult start in life. By taking the time to understand each dog and cat as an individual, we’re able to give them the care they need and help them find the right home.”
The Made by Harriet limited-edition clothing range will be available from 15 May until the end of June via the Battersea x Teemill store, with every purchase helping Battersea continue its work caring for dogs and cats at its centres, across the UK and around the world. More information on how to support Battersea, including donations and adoption, can be found here.
Notes to editors:
A full suite of imagery is available to download HERE. Additional merchandise imagery will be available by Tuesday 12 May. Please contact press@battersea.org.uk to request these.
For further information, images or interviews with Harriet, please contact press@battersea.org.uk.
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