In some elements of the world, stray animals are almost as beloved as pets. Hundreds of canine roam the streets of Cusco, Peru, for instance, and cats just about rule the night time in locations like Athens, Valletta, and Japan’s “cat islands.” Native residents typically feed and supply shelter for these roving colonies, and for Dutch photographer Marcel Heijnen, this human-animal connection gives infinite alternatives to expertise city facilities.
Beforehand exploring cities in China and Hong Kong, the place avenue cats are ample, Heijnen just lately introduced his digicam to the biggest metropolis in Turkey to chronicle among the most well-known feral felines in Europe. A forthcoming ebook from Thames & Hudson, Metropolis Cats of Istanbul, celebrates the realm’s native four-legged store attendants, guardians, cuddlers, and consummate snoozers.
Heijnen captures the spirit of Istanbul by portraits of its residents, outlets, houses, and serendipitous interactions. Whereas some photos concentrate on cats up-close, different photos emphasize town’s exceptional environment and playfully invite us to hunt out the place felines are perched or enjoying. Many cats are documented in moments of calm repose, whereas others seem as if they’ve been caught red-handed, climbing up architectural parts or embracing all method of archetypal kitty chaos.
See extra of Heijnen’s pictures on his web site and Instagram, and pre-order your copy of Metropolis Cats of Istanbul on Bookshop. In the event you’re in Istanbul in September, cease by the discharge occasion at 6 p.m. on September 20 on the Cat Museum.









