Art That Saves: The Story of Tayná, the Artist Who Transforms Cats into Reality and Hope

Some stories begin in silence and end up turning into something beautifully loud. That was the case with Tayná, an artist from Criciúma, Santa Catarina, Brazil, who found drawing to be both a form of expression, as well as a way to help animals in vulnerable situations.

Today, she is known for her realistic portraits of cats, many of them connected to the Quero Adotar project, and she uses her art as a tool for transformation and solidarity.

From depression to art: a refuge that became a profession

“I’ve always loved drawing since I was little, but I believe I got better as a teenager. It was a very difficult time, I went through a horrible depression, and my escape was drawing.”

At first, Tayná focused on human realism, but everything changed when one day, her boyfriend asked her to draw their cats. Unsure, since she had never done so before, she was surprised by the result. Little by little, what started as a tender request became a turning point: just as she was made to leave her former profession in law due to health reasons, she began embracing art as a path for her.

The connection with Quero Adotar

When she met Laura, from the Quero Adotar project, Tayná was already selling her drawings. However, she did feel the need to contribute more directly. “At the beginning of the year, I proposed donating three to four drawings per month for the project’s adopters. It was a way to give back the love to those who adopted.”

Over time, her involvement grew, as 10% of all her sales were directed to the project. Moreover, she began rescuing cats alongside the volunteers. “When I saw the expenses they had, I was desperate. I wanted to help more and more.”

The creative process: more than just pencil and paper

Most commissions, both private and for the project, come through social media. Tayná reserves six slots per month for private work and three for Quero Adotar. The process is filled with detail and affection.

She begins by helping clients choose the best photo, then asks them to share their pet’s story, usually drawing animals who have already passed away. “In those cases, I put a little more of my heart into it.”

Her drawings flow between sketching, choosing colors, background music, and hours of dedication. Once finished, she photographs the piece, applies a fixative, packs it with cat stickers, and even perfumes the envelope!

Yet, the most exciting moment is always the delivery. “Many times, I insist on delivering the artwork personally to see their reaction.”

Stories that leave a mark

Drawings linked to Quero Adotar often carry powerful stories, including cats who lose certain body parts and even motor skills. “I’ll never forget Letícia’s drawing. She had lost her cat, and when she received the artwork, she sent me a voice message with a trembling voice, telling me that her mother kept looking at the drawing with tears in her eyes. In those moments, I know I’m on the right path.”

Art and solidarity: a natural bond

The connection between her art and the project came from a simple question: “How can I help?” “Many people can’t contribute financially, but if you use what you know how to do, you can already transform animals’ lives. Art saved me so why not use it to save them too?”

Impact and transformation

For Tayná, her art not only immortalizes the bond between people and their pets, but also strengthens Quero Adotar’s mission. “A drawing can bring a pet owner even closer to their animal — sometimes having that artwork in your workspace reminds you that a beautiful cat is waiting for you at home, and that gives motivation. And for the project, every bit of help keeps the wheel turning.”

Her own life was also transformed. Tayná founded Hanno Tech, a technology company with branding inspired by her black cat, and which now sponsors Quero Adotar. She also plans to build a home with a cattery for future rescues. “Art saved me and gave meaning to my life,” she reflects.

Next steps

Tayná’s plans show that this story is just beginning: launching an animal realism course, painting canvases, opening a pet-art studio, creating more video content, and finding permanent sponsors for Quero Adotar.

“I want my art to be recognized by more people, but above all, I want to keep helping cats.”

Tayná’s journey is proof that passion and solidarity can walk hand in hand. Her art immortalizes memories, warms hearts, and creates new possibilities for animals who were once abandoned.

👉 Want to discover more about Tayná’s work and support Quero Adotar? Follow @quero.adotar and @skarstay to see the beautiful work that connects people, art, and cats in search of a loving home.