A global sensation with a paintbrush and a nose for art has vanished. Farm Sanctuary SA in Franschhoek is offering a R1.2 million reward for information leading to the safe return of Baanksy, their beloved painting sheep.
Western Cape, South Africa (17 February 2025) – In a remarkable call to action, Farm Sanctuary SA in Franschhoek has announced a R1.2 million reward for information leading to the safe return of their beloved painting sheep, Baanksy.
But this isn’t just any sheep.
At the end of 2024, the sanctuary introduced Baanksy to the world’s art scene, marking a new chapter after the heartbreaking loss of their famed painting pig, Pigcasso. Baanksy, named in a playful tribute to the enigmatic street artist Banksy, has since captivated audiences with his unique talent. Yet, on the 1st of February, Baanksy mysteriously vanished.
Joanne Lefson, Founder and Director of Farm Sanctuary SA, is desperate for answers.
“A family visiting from the UK had booked a commission from Baanksy on the 2nd of February but he didn’t arrive at his art studio.”
“We went looking for him and filed a police report. We don’t have any leads to go on. We had a smaller reward last week but now we have upped it to R1.2 million because we want clarification on what happened.”
“He was either stolen but there were no signs of a break-in, or out somewhere roaming the Winelands.”
“We don’t know why this particular sheep went missing when we have 10 of them.”
Lefson revealed that Baanksy can be recognised by the paint on his hooves – a signature trait from his artistic endeavours. She went on to explain why the reward is so significant.
“The reward is very high but the average painting of Baanksy goes for about R35,000.”
“His art sells around the world. He watched another animal paint and learned like that and that is why he is so special.”
“It’s not easy to replace a painting sheep. The money is a lot but the value of the artwork that he’s made, it is worth it.”
Police spokesperson Sergeant Twigg confirmed an active investigation into stock theft, “According to the complainant, she left the sheep on 1 February at about 5pm and when she returned the following day, at about 9.15am, she noticed the sheep was missing. No arrests have been made yet.”
A Rising Star Inspired by a Legend
Farm Sanctuary SA is no stranger to animal prodigies. Nestled in the picturesque Franschhoek Valley, the sanctuary is known for providing refuge to rescued farm animals. Baanksy became an unexpected star, following in the brushstrokes of Pigcasso, the celebrated painting pig whose artworks raised over R18 million for animal welfare.
Baanksy’s journey began in 2022 when, as a tiny lamb rescued from the Karoo, he watched Pigcasso create her vibrant masterpieces. The sanctuary had never attempted to teach another animal to paint but Baanksy learned simply by observing. The first sign of his talent emerged in 2024 when during a shearing session, he grabbed a paintbrush and began painting on a barn wall – much to everyone’s astonishment.
“Instead of ending up as a leg of lamb or on a live-transport ship, Baanksy is now Pigcasso’s prodigy,” shared Lefson.
“He’s the ‘Ram-brandt’ that loves to paint! He even ‘signs’ his art with his nose, just like Pigcasso!”
Though Baanksy is missing, his story is far from over. With the power of community and the heart of South Africa behind the search, there is hope that he will be found and brought home safely. Let’s work together to turn this into a story of triumph, proving once more that when South Africans unite, good things happen.
If you have any information about Baanksy’s whereabouts, contact Farm Sanctuary SA immediately.
by 