"Gato Erizado" is a vibrant and edgy continuation of the original "Gato Prieto." This piece features a hissing black cat set against a vivid green background with splatters of dark green and yellow, embodying raw energy and defiance. The cat’s whiskers and Lawrence Chappe's signature “Chappe” glow under black or blue light, adding a dynamic and playful element to the artwork. The signature is humorously placed as if emerging from the cat’s rear, serving as a lighthearted nod to life’s unexpected twists. This artwork is a quintessential example of the "Brute Pop" style—a blend of brutalism and pop art, conceived and pioneered by Lawrence Chappe. Spiritually, black cats are revered as symbols of protection, prosperity, and good fortune. They are often seen as guardians of the spiritual realm, embodying a delicate balance between light and darkness, with the power to ward off negative energy. The inspiration for this piece, like much of Chappe's work, stems from an instinctual and a universal calling—a feeling that something greater connects the artist to both the creation of the piece and its eventual owner. This painting also draws from Chappe's personal history, growing up in Cuba, where his brother Ariel affectionately called him “gato prieto.”

Lawrence Chappe

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I was Born in Havana Cuba — moved to Miami Florida during mid teens — Served in The US Navy right out of high school — During my 20s I received a formal education in architecture, art, and design — I believe there is a chance the universe is a simulation where nothing has innate meaning, so we get to give everything the meaning we want — I believe that what we observe creates our reality — beauty and ugliness inhabit same exact space at the same exact time. It is only us create the experience by observing.