In 2016, Haylee had the opportunity to meet renowned ex-world champion big-wave surfer Tom Carroll at his home in the Northern Beaches, where she photographed him alongside his cat, Chino, for this portrait painting. She also made preparatory sketches to capture the scene in greater detail.

The resulting artwork encapsulates a quiet, intimate moment between Tom and his beloved cat, while also reflecting Tom’s essence - a man who has lived through much, yet has found peace and self-acceptance. His humour and warm presence, shaped by his life experiences, are beautifully conveyed in the piece.

The painting showcases Haylee’s signature portrait style, characterised by layers of acrylic paint that build a rich, textured surface. The early layers are expressive and painterly, and with each new layer, the details become more refined. Haylee expertly balances the expressive, free-flowing areas with tighter, more realistic details, guiding the viewer’s focus and adding structure to the composition.