43 Purrfect Street Art Pieces: A Tribute to Our Cats

Feline Inspired Street Art: A Global Phenomenon

The world of street art is a vibrant, ever-evolving canvas that reflects the thoughts, ideas, and aesthetics of diverse cultures around the globe. Among this profusion of creativity, one subject stands out and continues to inspire artists across borders and continents – the cat.

This feline-inspired street art phenomenon is far-reaching, with each corner of the world lending its own unique perspective to the representation of cats in public art.

In the bustling cities of Japan, for example, where the cat is considered a symbol of good luck, you might spot murals depicting ‘Maneki-neko’ or the ‘beckoning cat’, a common Japanese talisman believed to bring fortune and prosperity.

Across the Atlantic, in the urban landscapes of New York or Los Angeles, artists portray cats as emblems of the city’s spirit – independent, resourceful, and resilient. These murals often depict cats prowling rooftops or lounging lazily in the sun-drenched corners of the city, much like their human counterparts.

About: House turned into a giant cardboard box with a cat

About: The Giant Kitten

About: The Red Cat Mural: A Street Art Piece by LeHo Artwork in Taipei

About: They made a statue to honor a stray cat that used to sit in this position and watch the passers by

Down under in Australia, you might come across vibrant murals that pay tribute to the local wildlife, featuring the mysterious and elusive native feline species like the Quokka.

Europe, too, boasts a rich tapestry of cat-themed street art. In the ancient city of Istanbul (Constantinople), cats have a longstanding association with the local community, and this is reflected in the numerous cat murals adorning the city’s historic walls.

The fascinating thing about this global phenomenon is the ability of street art to reflect not only the individual artist’s perception of cats but also to capture the cultural essence and local flavor of each place. Thus, each piece becomes a dialogue between the artist, the audience, and the city itself, making feline-inspired street art a truly global artistic language.

About: Street (cat) Art by SWIFTMANTIS in Papaioea, New Zealand (4 photos)

Cats: Symbols of Mystery and Independence

In many cultures, cats are seen as symbols of mystery and independence. Their stealthy nature and graceful movements have been captured beautifully by various street artists, who use their work to reflect these qualities.

About: Street Art by DALeast – In Paris, France

A Reflection of Local Culture

In many cases, these cat-themed murals and installations also reflect the local culture and environment. Artists may incorporate elements of their city’s history or landmarks alongside these feline figures, creating unique pieces that offer commentary on local life.

About: Cat! – Street art by Näutil in Réthoville, France (9 photos)

An Expression of Personal Style

From hyper-realistic murals to abstract depictions, each artist’s interpretation of their feline subject reflects their personal style and the specific message they aim to convey. Some may highlight the playfulness of cats, while others may emphasize their aloofness or predatory instincts.

About: Pelle Svanslös mural by Charlie Granberg in Uppsala, Sweden.

A Nod to Famous Felines

Several street art pieces around the world pay tribute to famous cats from popular culture, be it cartoons, literature, or internet memes. These pieces often add a touch of nostalgia and whimsy to their surroundings.

Don’t forget to share your photos of street art cats in our Facebook group, Your Street Art Utopia. We can’t wait to see your discoveries!