Hello, fellow cat enthusiasts, art aficionados, and kindred spirits! I’m Rebecca, a lone parent based in the picturesque town of Eastbourne, East Sussex. My life revolves around my 11-year-old son, two charming cats – a ginger boy with a constantly confused expression and a tortie girl with sass – and a world of creativity that have given birth to my upcoming venture, Messy Cat.

You might know me from my Instagram page, @RebeccaSussexArtist, where I share my artistic endeavors, including an introduction to the mischievous escapades of a little black ink cat aptly named Messy Cat. Little did I know that these whimsical illustrations would become the cornerstone of a journey I’m excited to embark on – the journey into creativity, attempting to generate income and the challenges of being a self-employed artist, illustrator, and writer.

As a lone parent, my journey isn’t just about finding my way in the art world; it’s about navigating the delicate balance between pursuing my passions and being there for my son, who is my absolute world. Parenthood has a unique rhythm, and when you throw in the joys and challenges of raising an autistic child, especially on your own, it becomes a symphony of love, patience, and resilience.

The inspiration for Messy Cat came from a simple ink drawing I shared online, and the encouragement I received from friends and followers sparked an idea – turning these drawings into a book. Fast forward to now, and I’m thrilled to share that I’ve spent the past year pouring my heart and soul into a book that’s soon to see the light of day.

Being self-employed isn’t just a career choice for me; it’s a necessity. It’s about crafting a life that accommodates my own health considerations while ensuring I’m there for my son when he needs me the most. This journey is personal, and I want to take you along as I navigate the intricacies of self-employment, artistry, and parenting.

The Messy Cat blog isn’t just about the book launch (though that’s a significant part of it), but it’s a chronicle of the challenges, triumphs, and unexpected detours I encounter along the way. I’m not just an artist; I’m a storyteller, both visually and through words, and this blog is where I unfold the chapters of my life – messy, beautiful, and uniquely mine.

So, whether you’re an art enthusiast, a parent, or someone looking for a bit of inspiration, welcome to Messy Cat – where the creativity never stops, and the journey is as exciting (manifesting here!) as the destination. Stay tuned for tales of ink, art, writing and the beautiful chaos that is life.

Until next time,

Rebecca