Behind The Mind

Shanice L. Wadell

From an early age, I immersed myself in the vibrant world of the arts, fueled by the creativity that flowed through my family. With a mother who was an illustrator, muralist, graphic designer, and art director, and a father who studied architecture and was talented in photography, I was destined to embrace the artistic spirit.

Growing up, I dreamed of becoming an artist in various forms… illustrator, sculptor, painter, creative writer, photographer, and graphic designer. I feel fortunate to have explored these passions for over 17 years, both as a freelancer and in corporate environments.

However, everything changed in 2016 when I discovered the exhilarating realm of Special Effects (SFX) and SFX Makeup Art.

It ignited a new artistic flame within me. Over the last decade, this captivating field has transformed my life, fueling my passion, boosting my self-confidence, and providing a new platform for my creative expression.

  • Merging My Skills...

    SFX artistry enables me to weave together all my artistic talents: I can sculpt and paint, craft magical backstories for my characters, utilize my 17-year background in graphic design (Example: BatCat FX Pictorial and Typography Logo, designed by me), and serve as my own photographer, videographer, and editor. Each character and creature I create comes to life through this fusion of skills.

  • Not Just A Hobby...

    Art is more than a hobby; it is my way of life and my primary form of self-expression. The possibilities are endless, and I am excited to explore every unique avenue! My passion for SFX soon blossomed into a dream of starting my own business, an idea that became a reality with BatCat FX LLC. This venture is a true extension of who I am, crafted to share my creativity with you.

  • One Last Thing...

    Let us embrace what makes us unique. Remember to always:

     

    Be Unique 

    Be Weird 

    Be Creative 

     

    And most importantly... 

    Be You!

  • The BatCat FX Mission

    At BatCat FX LLC, my mission is to bring imagination vividly to life through highly detailed, handcrafted prosthetics and props inspired by the fantastical worlds of lore, the things that go bump in the night, the whimsy of nature, and the beauty that lies within the animal kingdom. Every piece I create is a testament to my passion for originality and artistic innovation.

  • When I officially registered my business in July of 2025, I promised to devote myself to pushing the boundaries of special effects artistry with a relentless commitment to creativity, authenticity, and detail. Through my work, I strive to empower individuals, inspire stories, and unleash transformation, ensuring that each BatCat FX piece remains a distinctive treasure and a fusion of vision, skill, and untamed imagination.

  • Why the Name “BatCat FX”

    For those who know me, the term “BatCat” is so much more than just a catchy business name; it's a heartfelt tribute to my beloved “fur kids”! I have always playfully dubbed them my “BatCats,” inspired by the unforgettable characters of Gotham City. Yes, I’m that person… the one with an undeniable passion for both Cats and Batman since my earliest childhood memories!

  • Furthermore, working in the fascinating world of creature and character creation, I found that BatCat FX perfectly captures the essence of my brand. It is all about merging two enigmatic nocturnal beings into one dazzlingly unique creation… shapeshifting at its finest! With hints of the dark allure of the bat and the mysteriously enchanting curiosity of our feline friends, it was an absolute no-brainer to embrace the name BatCat FX. I am thrilled to share my creativity with you all, blending my love of animals, mystical creatures, one-of-a-kind characters, and storytelling. Join me on this exciting journey where imagination takes flight!

Meet The BatCats

My Unofficial BatCat FX Team

Director of Operations

Bane

Bane, although not the first BatCat in my life, is the first BatCat my fiancée and I adopted together. Actually, let's be real... we didn’t adopt him. Bane dramatically chose us when he made a surprise exit from a garbage can as we were driving by. It was like a scene from an action movie.

As someone once famously quipped, "Ah, you think darkness is your ally. But you merely adopted the dark; I was born in it, molded by it. I didn't see the light until I was already a man; by then, it was nothing to me but blinding!" Well, Bane flipped that script... he went from trash to treasure! Since August 2013, he’s been living his best spoiled life.

With his laid-back demeanor and nurturing spirit, he embodies everything I envision for the BatCat FX "Director of Operations" role. It’s no surprise that our beloved Bane-Bane is a true leader of the household, effortlessly bringing a sense of love and harmony to the BatCat Crew.

Nicknames: Bane-Bane / Our Potato

Head Of Security

Commissioner Gordon

Commissioner Gordon made his grand entrance into our family in September of 2013. A single trip to PetSmart, and I was smitten by the 5-month-old orange nugget who was available for adoption. They informed me that a good Samaritan found him on the side of the road inside a box with a blanket and a tiny stuffed teddy bear. He immediately stole my heart. Plus, Bane needed a playmate!

Now, that once tiny furball has transformed into a towering 17-pound powerhouse, ready to take on the world... or, more accurately, the couch. Although I officially appointed Gordon as the BatCat FX Security Guard, his “security duties” are mostly scheduled around hour-long, nap-filled shifts, with occasional retreats to the nearest hiding spot whenever the doorbell rings. Clearly, he's more of a watchful slumberer than a crime-fighting feline.

Nicknames: Gordy / The Commish

Office Supervisor

Alfred Pennyworth

In January 2014, I made the bold decision to adopt not one, but two incredible cats, both of whom were 4 years old... Lucius Fox and Alfred Pennyworth. Both arrived at the shelter under similar tragic circumstances, having been surrendered.

Alfred, with his charming moves, rolled over on our first meeting like a seasoned pro, begging for belly rubs. I was sold.

Just like Bruce Wayne’s trusty Alfred, MY Alfred has taken on the role of my trusty supervisor. He insists on quality lap time while I work (clearly, he runs a tight ship), and as night falls, he transforms into the world’s fluffiest night watchman, curling up beside me and resting his head on my shoulder. It's almost as if he’s saying, "I’ve got your back… and your lap!"

Nicknames: Alfy / Nater-Tater / Tater Tots

Intern - aka "Thing 1"

Harley

October 7, 2024, we officially welcomed a 7-month-old dynamic due to our BatCat Crew... Harley & Quinn. These darling brothers were rescued from a grim hoarding situation of nearly 60 cats and kittens. Needless to say, they had a rough start at life.

Fast forward to the present, and our charismatic Harley Boy is a whirlwind of energy! He’s so full of spirit that during his breaks, he takes to tightrope walking on the stair banisters... who needs a circus when I have this wild child? One of his favorite pastimes while I’m hard at work is bringing me his prized pom pom ball, ready for an epic game of fetch. Honestly, he’s learning fast; he’s already mastered the art of following me around like my furry shadow.

Nicknames: Harley Boy / Gremlin / Thing 1

Intern - AKA "Thing 2"

Quinn

As mentioned before, on October 7, 2024, we officially added a couple of furry rascals to our BatCat Crew... Harley & Quinn, the 7-month-old dynamic duo! These charming brothers were saved from a cat-tastrophe involving nearly 60 felines in a hoarding situation. Fast forward to today, and they have quickly adapted to the spoiled life!

Don't let Quinn’s brooding glares and rugged charm mislead you... He’s basically the kitty equivalent of a cuddly teddy bear! He’s all about belly rubs and pouncing on his favorite blue and purple octopus toy wand. And let's not forget about FOOD TIME! Much like Harley, Quinn is my devoted "Intern" sidekick who prefers to stay close while I tackle the more complex work tasks. Absorbing knowledge? Nah, he’s more interested in mastering the art of napping!

Nicknames: Quinny / Gremlin / Thing 2

In Loving Memory

The BatCats That Gained Their Bat Wings

  • Lucius Fox

    Jan. 2014 - Sept. 03, 2024

  • Oswald Cobblepot

    Aug. 2016 – Jan. 24, 2022

  • Bruce Wayne

    Nov. 2008 – Dec. 20, 2020

  • Harvey Dent

    Nov. 2008 – Aug. 17, 2021