In a somber announcement, Joanne Lefson shared the news of the passing of Pigcasso, the extraordinary pig artist, at the age of 8. Pigcasso, renowned as “the most successful non-human artist in world history,” succumbed to chronic Rheumatoid arthritis, leaving behind a legacy that transcends the realms of conventional artistry.
Pigcasso Paintings
Joanne Lefson, an animal activist from Franschhoek, South Africa, rescued Pigcasso from the clutches of a slaughterhouse when the pig was just four weeks old in May 2016. Lefson’s compassionate intervention saved the 450-pound visionary from becoming a mere bacon bit, paving the way for an awe-inspiring artistic career.
“Pigcasso would have become bacon bit within 6 months of age,” remarked Lefson. “Instead, she was saved and rose to inspire millions of people to reconsider what they eat through her extraordinary talent.”
The Farm Sanctuary SA: A Haven for Artistic Expression
Pigcasso found her home at Farm Sanctuary SA, a non-profit foundation dedicated to providing a haven for rescued farmed animals in Franschhoek. Her artistic journey unfolded in this sanctuary, where she not only painted but also became a beacon of inspiration for a kinder, more sustainable world.
“Her legacy continues through the sanctuary and our mission to inspire a kinder, more sustainable world for all,” emphasized Lefson.
From Pigsty to Picasso: The Rise to Fame
Pigcasso, cheekily named as a nod to cubism pioneer Pablo Picasso, gained international fame in late 2016. The pig’s artistic prowess made waves in the art world after Lefson placed a modified paintbrush in her mouth and presented her with an empty canvas.
“I do not force her to paint. She paints when she wants to,” explained Lefson. “Often, we pack an overloaded picnic basket, and she pigs out on organic strawberries, guavas, and caramel-coated popcorn in between brush strokes.”
A World of Recognition and Record-Breaking Achievements
In 2018, Pigcasso made history as the first animal artist to host a solo art exhibition at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town, South Africa. Her fame extended globally with exhibitions in the Netherlands, Germany, France, China, and the United Kingdom.
The hog’s creative endeavors reached new heights when she collaborated with Swiss watchmaker Swatch, lending her artwork to the face of a limited-edition timepiece. In 2021, Pigcasso set an official world record by selling her artwork titled “WILD AND FREE” to a German buyer for over $25,000.
Painting Pig Pigcasso is dead
However, Pigcasso’s meteoric success was overshadowed by a sudden decline in health. Symptoms of arthritis that had surfaced over the years escalated, leading to the pig’s physical deterioration in September 2023.
Both of her back legs became lame due to the calcification of her lower spine, conditions directly linked to the manipulations and modifications faced by farm animals in industrialized factory farms.
Celebrating a Life Well-Lived
Rather than succumbing to mourning, Joanne Lefson chooses to celebrate Pigcasso’s life and legacy. The revenue generated from the pig’s million-dollar artistry not only sustained Farm Sanctuary SA but also supported other charities aligned with her mission.
“[It] is not only a testament to her extraordinary creativity and intelligence, but the revenue raised also benefits and sustains Farm Sanctuary SA where she lived,” stated Lefson. “The funds have also supported other charities that resonate with her mission.”
Standing Ovation: A Fitting Finale
Pigcasso’s artistic journey concluded with her last masterpiece, titled “Standing Ovation.” As we bid farewell to this porcine prodigy, her impact on the world of art and animal welfare resonates, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those who admired her extraordinary talents.