The artwork “Family of Cats” by Aldemir Martins, created in 2003, is a vibrant example of Naive Art, which is often characterized by a childlike simplicity and candidness. This genre, also known as Primitivism, often features artwork that does not adhere to the technical aspects seen in more classical art movements. The piece falls under the animal painting genre, which is reflected in its subject matter.
In this painting, we observe a stylized depiction of a family of cats with a total of four feline figures occupying the foreground. Each cat is portrayed with elongated bodies and limbs, with bold, flat areas of color defining their shapes. The colors are vivid and include red, blue, and yellow, injecting a lively and playful atmosphere into the composition. Their faces are simplified yet expressive, with prominent eyes that provide a focal point. They are seated against a bright yellow background that contributes to a warm, inviting ambiance. There is a sense of innocence and whimsy in this representation, a hallmark of Martins’ style within the Naive Art movement.