We're featuring a few of our PRE-SHRUNK 2026 artists on our blog every few days, leading up to the opening reception on Friday, January 23rd, 7pm-9pm. It's hard to believe this will be our 22nd year hosting this joyful show. Meet Nova Scotia artist Lil Crump, whose charming cat prints and paintings deliver a delightfully whimsical respite from a world that’s adept at serving up a whole lot of crazy.
The art of Lil Crump provides a playful magic to the show with her submissions this year. Let's take a peek! We've asked Lil a few questions below which she has answered in her own words below too!
For starters, we asked her...why paint cats?
I get asked this a lot. For me, it comes down to aspiration. I admire a cat’s way of
being—affectionate but independent, dramatic yet quietly thoughtful. Every cat brings a
distinct personality to the canvas, and their little fixations—birds, fish, the occasional
mouse—add humour and energy. They never stop being interesting, which makes them
endlessly fun to draw and paint.
What’s your favourite thing in your studio?
That’s a tough one. My studio is full of favourite things: books, mugs, cards, and images
(Gordon MacDonald’s skyscape included). But what really makes the space is the light.
Two large windows fill the room throughout the day, and in summer when the windows
are open, I’m treated to the smell of roses, lavender, and a hint of salty ocean air. I also
share the space with my office manager, Isla—lovable, occasionally bossy, and happy to
rent out her studio in exchange for treats.
What’s your process?
Balancing spontaneity with design principles, I start with quick sketches to work out
structure and mood, followed by colour sketches to explore the palette and brush
textures. These are often done on my phone using the Procreate Pocket App with an
Adonit Stylus, which means I can do this initial work just about anywhere. My favourite
place to sketch is near the ocean, my most frequent sketching spot overlooks Cleveland
Beach.Once I move to canvas (or wood), I sketch the characters in pencil and then build the
painting in layers—starting with a base layer to ground the composition, then adding
depth, texture, and detail. The final stage is all about refining expression. My goal is
always to create work that feels thoughtful, alive, and lasting.
What inspired your submissions for this year’s Pre-Shrunk show?
One of my previous paintings featured a cat facing his fear of the ocean, accompanied by
a few supportive seagull friends. This year’s Pre-Shrunk canvases build on that idea,
giving me a chance to quietly sneak some of my favourite places and experiences into
the work.
OK! Sneak peek time...here are two of the four works that will be included in our Pre-Shrunk 2026 show by Lil Crump. Be sure to visit the show in person to see the others as well as art by over 100 artists this year. Visit the gallery in person or online at www.argylefineart.com from January 23rd until February 25th.
Lil Crump, The Picnic, Acrylic on Canvas, 4"x5" 
Lil Crump, Running With Birds, Acrylic on Canvas, 4"x5"
SEE YOU HERE AGAIN on FRIDAY for more PRE-SHRUNK sneak peeks and artist spotlights!
