Arden Barnes

About the project: 

This collection of photographs explores the blend of companionship and co-habitation that defines the relationship between myself, my partner and our two bi-color cats, Sprout and Domino. As a long-time photojournalist, I wanted the challenge of turning the camera inwards on myself and was inspired by other artists creating work about their beloved pets, including Masahisa Fukase’s photos of his cat, Sasuke, and Georgia O'Keefe’s photographs of her chow-chows. I am drawn to the themes of companionship, humor and love prevalent throughout this project and in the experience of being a cat owner. In sharing these images, I have found connections with others that I have little in common with beyond being a pet owner. I have found joy in the shared amusement, frustration and love that encompass our bonds with our pets.