This piece is named "Soul Mates" because clouded leopards are one of the few big cats that mate for life. I came upon this pair at a zoo all snuggled up together. I was struck by the charm of the situation, but what made me want to paint them was the way they seemed to blend together as one. They were wrapped up so tightly it was hard to tell where they separated. I also enjoyed painting the strong patterns and shapes of their coats.