When pigs fly the SA flag high! Pigcasso, the artistic pig that could, has a story filled with creativity, kindness, a painting purchased by George Clooney and a sanctuary’s survival. Now, Pigcasso has her own book too.
Franschhoek, South Africa (18 September 2023) – The story of Pigcasso, the artistic pig that could, is one that has evoked all the feels and awe in South Africans and the world beyond.
Today, Pigcasso is known for her splashes of abstract colour that have been sold to the likes of George Clooney. However, just a few years ago in 2016, Pigcasso was a simple piglet on the verge of slaughter.
Thanks to Oscars Arc and Farm Sanctuary SA founder Joanne Lefson, Pigcasso’s life took a 180-degree turn. Not only did the pig get to live out her days in the care of the Farm Sanctuary (a haven for rescued livestock), but she also got to explore a talent few pigs dare to dream of.
After she displayed a liking toward a paintbrush lying in the barn (the only item the young sow is said to not have eaten), her ‘career’ began with a humble canvas on the sanctuary wall. This inspired Joanne to let the little pig explore the world of art, and hundreds of paintings later—Pigcasso is still at it!
These ‘Abstract Expressionist’ works and have raised over R3 million, all in the name of the Farm Sanctuary SA—providing food supplies, veterinary bills and sanctuary staff salaries so that all the animals can live their rescue chapters with the best care possible. Her artistry has also made history, seen exhibitions from Cape Town to Amsterdam and, most importantly, kept the Farm Sanctuary doors open.
Now, Pigcasso’s story will enjoy another feat on the iconic ladder as a book written by none other than Joanne Lefson herself.
‘Pigcasso’, the book tells the story of the artistic pig that could and the circumstances that brought her and Joanne together to take the art world by parodical storm for a greater cause. Its publishing date is set for 31 October, so keep your finger on the pulse via Pigcasso’s socials for the full read!
