Catherine Gran’s aesthetic is defined by a striking contrast: the strict elegance of classical, traditional engraving combined with a highly modern, surreal sense of humor.
Her visual language is almost exclusively graphic, relying heavily on a monochromatic palette of deep black and brilliant gold set against pure white backgrounds. The work feels timeless and aristocratic at first glance, reminiscent of 18th-century scientific illustrations or royal porcelain, but a closer look reveals a playful, poetic, and slightly mischievous spirit.
Gran's subjects bridge the gap between classical nature studies and pop culture. She frequently populates her work with:
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The Animal Kingdom: Whimsical, detailed creatures ranging from microscopic insects (beetles, mosquitoes, caterpillars, ladybugs) to larger-than-life or epic animals (owls, seahorses, elephants).
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Botanicals & Objects: Simple, everyday items treated with royal elegance—such as wild strawberries, sliced lemons, light bulbs, or an ice cream cone.
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Nods to Pop Culture: In a brilliant twist of her "facetious" style, she often weaves unexpected modern icons like Pac-Man and his arcade ghosts into her otherwise classical compositions.