Meet Elizabeth Schoonmaker and Eula the Square Cat: A Celebration of Uniqueness and Creativity
At Cats Magazine, we love discovering stories that celebrate the quirks and wonders of our feline friends – and few characters embody this spirit quite like Eula the Square Cat. Created by the talented Elizabeth Schoonmaker, Eula is not your typical round and fluffy kitty. She’s square – literally and figuratively! Through her delightful adventures, Eula the square cat shows young readers that being different is not just okay – it’s something to be celebrated.
Elizabeth Schoonmaker is a writer, illustrator, and artist whose creative journey has brought Eula’s world to life through beautifully illustrated children’s books, including Square Cat and Square Cat ABC. With warmth, humor, and vibrant artwork, these books explore themes of friendship, self-acceptance, and the power of embracing one’s uniqueness – all wrapped up in a purrfectly charming tale.
Beyond the pages of her books, Elizabeth continues to share Eula’s journey through her blog, Eula the Square Cat, where she brings her character to life in new and imaginative ways. From illustrations to stories and creative explorations, Eula’s world is ever-expanding, much like the love her fans have for her.
In this interview, Elizabeth shares the inspiration behind Eula, the creative process that brings her to life, and the joys and challenges of being an author and illustrator. Join us as we dive into the whimsical world of Eula the Square Cat!
About Eula the Square Cat
Eula Square Cat has such a unique look and personality! How did her “square” shape come to life? Was it a sudden flash of inspiration or a more gradual evolution?
I was working in my studio with my cat, Stanleigh, on a bright February day. At one point, Stanleigh meowed, and as I looked at her, I thought, “Wonder what it would be like to be a Square Cat?” I quickly penciled a square; added ears, eyes, a nose, and whiskers – lastly, a square tail. Square Cat instantly came to life. I’ve always loved the name Eula, which is square in sound and shape. I had my character, Eula, Square Cat. A flood of difficulties in being square flowed quite naturally. From being stuck tipping over to never quite finding a proper fit. Thus, the story of a Square Cat living in a round world was realized.
If Eula could talk directly to her readers, what would she want them to know about being “square” in a round world?
Children quickly learn that Square Cat is differently wonderful. Like Square Cat, they too are differently wonderful in size, color, language, love, and life. Together, differences make a superpower!
If Eula had to describe herself using only cat puns, what would she say?
Purrfectly Square!
Purrsuasively Square!
Mewvelously Square!
About Your Creative Process
What’s a typical day like in your studio? Do you have any real-life feline companions who supervise your work?
I work in my studio every day. No kitties to keep me company to date.
Illustration and storytelling often go hand-in-hand. Do you start with a story in mind, or do the characters and visuals come to you first?
I often start with an illustration, which leads me to a story. (You will see on my blog that sculpture and painting are a vital part of my portfolio.)
Personal
You mentioned being “half Dutch” – how do you think your Dutch heritage influences your creativity, if at all? Does Eula have a little Dutch spirit in her?
I am half Dutch, thus my love for Square Cat’s orange color!
If Eula Square Cat were to visit Belgium, what adventures do you think she’d have? Would she be more likely to chase waffles or sniff out chocolate?
Square Cat would love to visit Belgium! Eula loves chocolate and waffles!
Future of Eula the Square Cat
Eula has already won so many hearts. What’s next for her? Any upcoming books, projects, or collaborations we should keep our eyes (and whiskers) out for?
For now, there are no new Square Cat books on the horizon. Publishing is a very competitive and difficult business. I will never give up on Eula, with hopes she will always find a new avenue to share her motto: “It is hip to be Square.”
Eula’s stories are timeless. Do you see her exploring other formats in the future, like animation, merchandise, or maybe even her own feline podcast?
I do have one plush Eula that a friend made for me. Again, it’s difficult to become “famous.” If one is so lucky, the merch soon follows!
What advice would you give to aspiring illustrators or storytellers who want to bring their own unique characters to life, much like you did with Eula?
Oh, advice for artists breaking into the business – DON’T GIVE UP! Persistence is the key. I am still reaching out for different avenues to promote my work.
Love cats as much as we do? Join the Cats Magazine community on Facebook! 🐱💬 Stay updated with the latest cat tips, heartwarming stories, and adorable feline fun.
Discover more from Cats Magazine
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
