Sightings of ‘big cats’ have long been common in Devon, but today’s sightings of big black cats wandering along the water’s edge at Exmouth Beach are even rarer. On the morning of June 15, many people’s heads were stunned when they saw the ‘creature’ cool off by paddling in the sea in normally warm temperatures.
Far from being a dangerous wild animal, however, a simple and fearless explanation has been revealed. This life-size cat is actually the work of Brendan Rawlings, known for his stunning and unusual sculptures.
Zen Wood Design creator and artist Brendan is known for causing a stir at Exmouth Beach, where he has photographed many of his previous artwork, including a 12ft Neptune/Posse Winter wooden sculpture of a majestic 6ft crouching male angel with wings and a child angel named Faith based on his daughter Katie.
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His latest creation is a full-scale black panther called Resilience, crafted from local driftwood.
He said: “It took a long time to burn the black but I’m excited about how it looks. There have been many sightings in the UK since the Dangerous Wildlife Act 1976. My dad found one in Woodbury. Big black cats were common in the 80s when we were out running, so it was always on my mind when I was out for a run or a walk in the backcountry.
(Image: Brendan Rollins)
“If they’re roaming the UK, ‘resilient’ is the perfect word to describe them, they’ve adapted to foreign climates and continue to survive. Maybe we can borrow from their book in the next few years as our economic climate worsens? “
In 2019, Brendan built a shark made of driftwood for his brother-in-law – and soon found himself with 20 commissions for further designs. In just three weeks, he had enough interest to keep him busy full-time. Since then, he has been running Zen Wood Design from his studio in Topsham.
(Image: Brendan Rollins)
Previously, he ran a successful fitness business in Dubai before returning to Devon with his family in the summer of 2017. Brendan now spends most of his time on commissions, while also planning what his next special project to surprise the locals is.
He said: “In addition to the busy commission diary, I have some other sculptures planned this year. My next project is a large galloping horse sculpture that excites me.”
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