Aquarius 

Lucia Heffernan painted ‘Aquarius’ using oils, capturing a cat drinking straight from a milk bottle. The open refrigerator door and a spilled puddle of milk indicate a scene of clandestine indulgence. The image of the cat drinking from the bottle alludes to a pervasive cultural tradition that depicts cats drinking milk which stretches back to ancient fables and children's stories. But Heffernan’s image also subtly challenges the traditional association of women with domesticity, as the cat seemingly bypasses the role of the human caregiver. Painted in the style of classical realism, ‘Aquarius’ uses recognizable conventions to deliver social commentary, reflecting on themes of autonomy and desire. As art historians, we look at these visual codes and their cultural contexts to understand how artists engage with the social issues of their time. Detailed analysis, and a knowledge of social history, can reveal the meanings embedded in this seemingly simple scene.