Happy Pride month!
Happy Pride month!
I am delighted to present "Duval Flag".
“Duval Flag” (410mm W x 920mm H) (16” Wide x 36”) Mixed Media On Canvas
Key West Business Guild are selling raffle tickets for a chance to win my painting "Duval Flag" which was inspired by a recent trip to KW. It includes the famous sea to sea rainbow flag flying high and is painted in my usual expressionist style. it is an uplifting joyful piece that highlights the Key West motto of One Human Family. It will be on view during the week in the Key West Business Guild.
Tickets are available, plus the painting is on display:
*In the Key West Business Guild, 808 Duval Street right now!
*At the Business Guild luncheon on Wednesday at the Marriott Beachside
*At the street fair on Saturday
Creating Art in Key West
“One Human Family”
While PIGSY was vacationing in Key West the overall vibe of the islands ethos of “One Human Family” compelled him to compulsively plan a painting. The result, the result when he returned to Ireland was an inspired flow of expressionism which helped him to subconsciously recall the sea to sea rainbow flag which was 1.25 miles long and ran along Duval Street from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean created by the designer Gilbert Baker (happy image on the bike exploring his creation) who passed away in 2017. The island created a sense of creative happiness which manifested itself in the positive message that, all people are created equal.
Acceptance of diversity
The painting reflects the joyous pride that one can feel when prejudice and judgement of other people’s decisions are discarded and a free positive happy all for one, one for all approach to everyday life is embraced in a fair inclusive way, as it is with Key West which has embraced the motto “One Human Family”. The butterflies , flowers and smile on Gilbert’s Face show happiness and freedom along with pride and gives us a sense that the world is a brighter place with rainbows in it, along with an acceptance of diversity.
By Kemp
News update - Nov 2021
PIGSY art is now proudly available in Effusion Gallery on Duval Street, Key West
Pigsy documentary: online release
PIGSY Film: Online Release
Directed by Mike Andrews
Filmmaker Mike Andrews created this 8 minute short “Pigsy“ which premiered in the Galway Film Fleadh 2018 and then featured in film festivals in Ireland and the UK throughout 2018.
The documentary was released online on Saturday 25th of May 2019 and tells the story of Irish artist PIGSY and his life with dyslexia
Please watch, enjoy and share with anyone else that would be interested in it!
Studio upgrade
A new handrail for the art studio staircase
Cantilevered Glass Stairs
A little while ago, I set about designing a handrail for the cantilevered glass stairs up to my studio in my house on Leeson Park Avenue in Ranelagh. After finalising my design I sourced a master craftsman to construct the metal handrail. The man for the job was Brendan O’Donnell of Brendan Donnell Design at The Maker Shed along with Billy Moore Metalworks.
Metal Handrail
The fabricators did a top notch job - the metal handrail fits like a glove.
The new handrail certainly changes the look of the stair case - no more floating glass anymore - but it is safe and it makes my studio in to a far more usable space. It’s a big improvement overall!
Click on to my instagram to see more pics of the handrail.
Here’s the before…
And the after!
Pigsy in the Designyard, Dublin City
Designyard Gallery Dublin: Showcasing the Best of Irish Design & Craft
When it comes to celebrating the finest Irish design and craftsmanship, Designyard Gallery in Dublin stands out as a must-visit destination. Located on South Frederick Street, this gallery is a treasure trove of unique and extraordinary pieces of art, jewelry, and design. Whether you're a local or a tourist, stepping into Designyard offers a chance to experience the best of Irish contemporary design and craftsmanship in one of the most iconic art spaces in Dublin.
Discover Iconic Irish Art at Designyard
Among the many stunning artworks on display, one piece that stands out is "The Extra-Ordinary Crucified for You" by Pigsy. This large, striking artwork commands attention, and while photos can provide a glimpse, nothing compares to seeing it in person. The intricate details and bold statement of this piece embody the spirit of contemporary Irish sculpture and modern art.
Why Visit Designyard Gallery in Dublin?
Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply looking for a unique gift, Designyard offers something for everyone. From traditional Irish craftsmanship to cutting-edge design, the gallery showcases a diverse range of pieces that represent the heart and soul of Irish art culture. Designyard not only highlights established artists but also nurtures emerging talent, creating a dynamic and ever-changing collection.
A Unique Experience of Irish Craft
When you visit the Designyard Gallery, you'll find a rich selection of jewelry, ceramics, glass, textiles, and fine art sculptures. Each item is carefully selected for its creativity, innovation, and connection to Irish heritage. The gallery’s collection is a testament to the enduring popularity and excellence of Irish craft design, showcasing both timeless and contemporary works. Whether you're looking for one-of-a-kind jewelry or a statement sculpture, Designyard is a must-see destination for anyone interested in Irish design.
Meet Pigsy: The Artist Behind "The Extra-Ordinary Crucified for You"
One of the standout pieces at Designyard is the thought-provoking and visually stunning "The Extra-Ordinary Crucified for You" by the artist Pigsy. This sculpture, with its larger-than-life presence, pushes boundaries and challenges perceptions. The work is a remarkable example of modern Irish art that blends powerful symbolism with an innovative, contemporary approach.
Pigsy’s work invites viewers to explore deeper meanings and interpretations, making it an unforgettable part of the gallery’s collection. Whether you are an art connoisseur or simply appreciate unique and thought-provoking pieces, Pigsy's art will leave a lasting impression on you.
Why Should You Visit Designyard for Pigsy's Work?
Seeing Pigsy's "The Extra-Ordinary Crucified for You" in person is an experience that should not be missed. The scale, emotion, and craftsmanship of this piece make it one of the most captivating works on display at the gallery. When you visit, don't forget to tell the team at Designyard that Pigsy sent you!
More Than Just a Gallery: The Heart of Irish Design
Designyard is more than just a place to buy art; it’s a hub for Irish craftsmanship and design innovation. It offers visitors an opportunity to connect with the Irish design community and discover unique pieces that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Ireland. If you're looking for authentic handcrafted jewelry, ceramic art, or distinctive modern sculptures, Designyard is the ultimate place to find extraordinary creations that can’t be found anywhere else.
Plan Your Visit to Designyard Gallery
If you’re planning a trip to Dublin or live in the city, make sure to include Designyard Gallery in your itinerary. Located on South Frederick Street, the gallery is easily accessible and offers an immersive experience of Irish contemporary art. Don’t forget to take the time to explore the diverse collections on offer, including works by Pigsy and other celebrated artists.
For further details on current exhibitions, visiting hours, and available pieces, click here. Whether you’re a seasoned art lover or new to the world of Irish design, Designyard promises an enriching and inspiring visit.
Explore More of Irish Art and Design
Designyard is proud to showcase some of the best contemporary Irish designers and artists. From limited-edition prints to artisan-crafted homeware, there’s always something new to discover at the gallery. Immerse yourself in the creativity and craftsmanship that define Ireland’s vibrant art scene.
Conclusion: Designyard Gallery - Your Destination for Irish Design and Craft
In the heart of Dublin, Designyard Gallery is a destination where Irish design meets artistic excellence. Whether you're admiring Pigsy's awe-inspiring sculptures or browsing through the latest handcrafted jewelry, Designyard offers a window into the best of Irish creativity. Don’t miss out on the chance to experience this unique gallery and the remarkable pieces it holds. Visit Designyard today and discover the exceptional work of Ireland’s finest designers and artists.
Expressing myself: What I'm working on.....painting about Irish legends
Art Inspiration: Irish Legends
Fionn Macool
I’m currently working on a piece based on an old legend of Ireland. It is about Fionn Macool the leader of the Na Fianna warriors. The painting features Bran and Sceolang, Fionn’s two dogs and I am looking at the myth from a contemporary view and considering what Ireland needs saving from.
Art in situ
Art on Walls
It’s always amazing to see two things happen when a painting gets hung on a wall.
Transformation
The first thing that happens is that it completely transforms the whole space just by the simple action of putting a painting up. Then the second thing that happens is that the painting looks so completely different depending on where it is hung. and it also shouts out and appeals to people while it may not have before it was placed on the wall.
In regards to this, my advice would be to try art out. Hang pieces in different spots with different lighting and enjoy how they look and how you feel about them. It’s all subjective and down to personal taste so the main thing is how YOU feel about the art and whether YOU can live with it on your walls!
Art In-Situ
If you are an Art Collector, I’d advise you never rule out a piece until you see it in-situ or in a visualization of what it will look like in a particular space. Contact me for more details if you are interested.
Framed Art
When talking about hanging art on walls the question of frames always arise. Framing art can be very much about the preference of the art collector, the preference of the artist or the style of the house and the setting that the art will be hung in. The style of the art work is also important as some contemporary artworks look better unframed, or if they are going to be framed, care needs to be taken when choosing a frame to ensure that the frame is very subtle and does not interfere with the intention of the art. If you are interested in reading more about art framing, I’ve written extensively about framing art in another blog post - for more please see my art blog here.
Happy Christmas!
Happy Christmas 2018!
Christmas is always the time that I end up looking at the past and considering my time since last Christmas. 2018 has been one hell of a year and I’m thankful for all that has happened - lots of it beyond my wildest dreams. Here’s the highlights….
I returned to London to see the Basquiat exhibition in the Barbican after seeing it and LOVING it in 2017
“Pigsy” by Mike Andrews is completed and entered in to Film Festivals…..the waiting game starts and we wait notice to see if it will be selected for screening
We survive Storm Emma and the “big snow”!
Bones goes to the cinema when the Lighhouse screens a dog friendly showing of Isle of Dogs
I see the Emil Nolde exhibition in the National Gallery
3 of my pieces are in Incognito
I visit Tenerife for a beautiful wedding and I get to visit the volcano which brings me right back to my childhood when I drove up to it with my parents about 35 years ago!
The 8th is repealed. I am so proud that my wife was one of those who went out and knocked on doors and asked for people to get out and vote Yes for women’s rights……and the people of Ireland responded positively.
I hang out with Kemp as he does stencil work in Hope Brewery - a lot of fun!
Future Islands in Donnybrook Stadium - with a great dinner in Dillingers beforehand
“Pigsy” short film is selected for the Galway Film Festival - it was fairly surreal to see it on the big screen
Wedding in Dingle - everything was awesome about this (fireworks!) and we stayed in the gorgeous Pax Guesthouse
I visit the gaelteacht - the beautiful Carraroe in Galway which is very inspirational
I design a tattoo for a friend
Elvis 68 comeback special is shown in the Stella on my Wedding Anniversary (well we did get married on the day Elvis died)
Bristol! I see my first Banksy in the wild
I attend another great wedding in Ireland just outside of Dublin - great to celebrate with the happy couple.
“Pigsy” screens in the Bristol Film Festival
I get to the Biennale in Venice - dreams do come true!
I show my art in London and get an brilliant response. This was BIG! Click here to read about it all and watch out for news in 2019 about what is next happening.
I sell out of “I Find You Fascinating” limited edition prints - lucky you if you are one of the collectors who got their hands on one of the 10
“Pigsy” goes on to screen in the Cork Film Festival - I’m getting used to walking the red carpet. Lol!
David Byrne plays in Dublin. Unbelievably good. The talent of this man is mind blowing.
We go sailing in the Caribbean - click here to read Enid’s blog about the trip.
Moonhole. Moonhole! I never thought I was going to get to visit Moonhole but somehow I did……the story of how it all happened is for another day.
We go back to London for the screening of “Pigsy” in the Irish Film Festival London
“Make a Fool” is auctioned in aid of the Julian Benson CF Foundation
“The Extra-Ordinary Crucified for You” is selected for the Design Yard Gallery in Dublin, Ireland
And this is only a small part of what went on in my life. Professionally there has been so much more with lots of architectural successes - but if I start there I will be going on forever!
I’m ending 2018 in a great place and I hope 2019 is even better! I’ve certainly got a lot of reasons to be cheerful.
All the best to my supporters (especially my biggest cheer girl, my wife Enid) - have a great Christmas and an incredible New Year!
Irish Film Festival London - Pigsy Screening
“PIGSY” screening at the Irish Film Festival
Mike Andrew’s short documentary “Pigsy” screened as part of the Irish Film Festival London in the Irish Shorts section on Friday 23rd of November.
It was great to see this short film on the big screen in a big city and even more fun to walk the red carpet!
Well done to Filmmaker Mike Andrews and Editor Stephanie Sammon.
Click here to watch “PIGSY” film
The Other Art Fair - Interview with WinkBall Media
Winkball Media at the London Art Fair
Winkball interview with PIGSY about his art at the London Art Fair
Look out for me at 1.04 where I talk about my work!
IndieCork Film Festival
PIGSY screening: IndieCork Film Festival
After a very busy time in London at The Other Art Fair (with an awesome response to my work) it was on to Cork this weekend for the IndieCork Film Festival.
Mike Andrews short film Pigsy, featuring you know who, was screened twice. First on Saturday as part of the Irish Shorts programmes and then again on Sunday as part of Urban October.
Once again it was great to see the film on the big screen and well done to Mike - that’s 3 film festivals that it has been chosen to be screened at.
Click here to view the PIGSY short film
36 hours in Bristol
Bristol we will be back!
Banksy in Bristol
36 hours was not enough. After leaving our house at 4am for our flight to Bristol we hit the ground running when we landed in Bristol going straight in to the city, stopping off for breakfast (in Pinkman’s Bakery) and then on to a museum before rocking up at 11am for a Street Art Walking Tour that I had booked on line. However, the most exciting thing was that we happened upon our very first Banksy in the wild literally as we walked along the road as we looked for somewhere to have breakfast. Just brilliant!
Bristol Independent Film Festival
After the walking tour (it was excellent) we got to our hotel by 2pm and checked in. I had booked a superior suite so we had access to the executive suite where we had time for a relaxing drink before we got a taxi to the stunning Everyman Theatre for the Bristol Independent Film Festival where the Pigsy documentary was being screened. We saw some excellent films and when the festival finished we made our way to the very cool Quay St. Diner for dinner. The theatre itself that the festival was on in was a stunning 1920’s art deco cinema building.
Bristol Bus Tour & another Banksy
Then on Sunday we had a leisurely breakfast before making our way to the nearest bus stop to get out on an open top bus for a tour all over the city and even out to Brunel’s suspension bridge which we were very interested in seeing. After the bus tour we took a walk down the docks and visited the M Shed Museum which was very interesting and we got to see another Banksy - the one that he painted on the side of the Thekla boat. At this point we had enough walking so w.e went over to the little arthouse Watershed Cinema where we took in the Polish movie “Cold War”. After the film it was off to Spitfire for wings before we got on the bus back to the airport for our flight home to Ireland.
Phew we did so much!
All in all, we thought Bristol was a cool chilled out hip city and we look forward to returning again.
Here’s a few pics from the weekend
Getting set for my next showing
Art Show Preparation
I've lots of work to get done in order to get ready for my next showing as part of The Other Art Fair London. Flights & accommodation are booked and now I have to organise shipping of my art.
Curator Kemp
Before I could make shipping arrangements the final selection of art needed to be made. There is only one man who can make that final selection and that is curator Kemp.
Kemp called yesterday and spent the afternoon looking at the pieces that I had selected for the show. He is honest, critical and doesn't hold back - which is exactly what I need.
Kemp curating with the assistance of Bones
So now that the final selection is made, I got down to laying out the fair space and deciding what piece goes where.
Virtual art layout
So with final selection made, along with the decision how it will be hung, the next thing is for the info sheet to be completed which outlines each piece and gives the background on each one - again this is for the main man - curator Kemp! Watch this space......
For info about The Other Art Fair and for details on complimentary tickets, click here.
I look forward to seeing you at the fair - look out for me on stand no. 99!
"Pigsy" screening at the Bristol Independent Film Festival
“Pigsy” Official Selection at the Bristol Independent Film Festival 2018
Mike Andrews short film "Pigsy" will be screened as part of the Bristol Independent Film Festival on the 15th - 16th of September.
Watch the film to see artist PIGSY and his life with dyslexia.
PIGSY film is now online!
"Pigsy" screening at the Galway Film Festival
PIGSY screens in Galway Film Festival
Mike Andrews' short film "Pigsy" will be screened as part of the Galway Film Festival on Sunday the 15th of July at midday. As part of an 8 Irish shorts screening, tickets are available on the festival website.
PIGSY short film on Youtube now
Edit - you can now watch the PIGSY film on Youtube or below
Christmas is coming....
Christmas Gifts for Art Lovers
Christmas is coming and we are all beginning to think of gifts for our loved ones. Most of us have that one hard to buy for person in our life. They are generally someone who has everything and they cause lots of stress as we fret over what to get them.
Worry no more, as I have the perfect suggestions of what to buy for the hard to buy for.
ART!
Who doesn't love art? And even if someone has lots of art they always want more!
So if you make the decision to buy art this Christmas do check out my online store.
Or get in contact with me and we can arrange a convenient time for you to call to my house and have a look at a particular piece that you have an interest in. I will serve mince pies and mulled wine (well it is Christmas!) while you peruse my work.
Prints!
Send me an email if you want to have a look at my artwork and remember I also sell limited edition prints!
"Nostalgia's Not What it Was" Fumbally Exchange
PIGSY Solo Exhibition
“Nostalgia’s Not What it Was” , Fumbally Exchange, Dublin
Here's a few photos from my recent exhibition "Nostalgia's Not What it Was" in Fumbally Exchange in early October 2017. This was the second PIGSY solo show after the sell out success of my first one the year previously in The Kemp Gallery on South Frederick Street.
“Nostalgia’s Not What it Was” was held over 4 days and nights in Fumbally Exchange on Dame Lane, Dublin. Each night of the exhibition was themed slightly differently and catered for different audiences.
PIGSY Opening Night: Thursday 5th October 2017
Opening night was a busy affair. There was a large attendance and there was a brilliant buzz about my art with most of it selling out on the first night. Most guests had been at my previous solo show and were on the guest list. Manning the front door were twins Enid and Amy in their matching PIGSY branded t-shirts and they gave everyone a friendly greeting as they arrived. Extra to the guest list attendees there was also lots of drop in’s as Dame Lane is a busy street and people passing by could see the art and so they wanted to get in on the PIGSY action and have a look at the art too. For this event, I served prosecco along with a red and white wine offering (thanks to Pembroke wines). Irish craft beer makers Hope Beer also were in attendance and they brought along their tasty beers which went down a treat with my guests.
Street Night: Friday 6th October 2017
This was an edgier event than opening night. I had advertised it on Facebook and the guests that signed up to attend were more alternative to those who visited on the first night. I had a DJ playing a full set for the evening and again Hope Beer served beers to the crowd. Word spread fast and there was large amount of attendees. The vibe was very positive and the response to my art was phenomenal with loads of people sharing images on to social media which I always love!
Chilled out Art: Saturday 7th October 2017
The Saturday night event was far more mellow than the other nights. It was a case of playing a specially created playlist and serving wine to a select group of invited guests or guests who had already visited on the other nights but wanted to return to see the art in a quieter setting where they could get to talk to me about the artwork.
Family Day: Sunday 8th October 2017
Sunday being the last day of the event meant that it was beginning to wind down and the exhibition was on display from 12pm to 5pm. I had been promoting the last day on social media so I was being contacted from early on by people saying they had not got in over the weekend so they would call in on Sunday. Also my family had been invited in on this day and so some of them visited at different points over the day. I had laid on flasks of coffee and brunch style snacks for all who visited on Sunday and it was a really nice sociable day. At 5pm there was still people coming to the door of the gallery and viewing the art so in the end I closed the doors at 6pm and not at the earlier time as previously planned!
My forthcoming solo exhibition in Dublin!
"Nostalgia's Not What It Was"
Following on from his well received debut show, artist Pigsy now presents a new body of work "Nostalgia's Not What It Was", opening on Thursday 5th October at 6pm in Fumbally Exchange, Dame Lane, Dublin 2.
Ciarán McCoy is Pigsy. As Ciarán McCoy, he works as a partner in the renowned architectural practice ODKM Architect in Dublin City centre. As Pigsy, he releases himself from the disciplined nature of architecture to create free flowing expressionist art.
Pigsy started to create from a young age by using chalks on both the playground and the blackboards at school to pass the time between classes. He has added a multitude of painting media to his palette since then but still incorporates chalk use in most of his pieces as a nod to these formative methods.
Evolution of Childhood
This body of work is all about moving forward as a person and deals with he evolution of childhood friendships, old haunts and activities from childhood and the difficulties experienced throughout schooling because of his dyslexia.
“Nostalgia's Not What It Was", is an idea that I’ve been working on for a while" says Pigsy "I believe it's best to live in the moment and not give over too much space in our mind to useless non-positive thoughts that prevent us from seeing our true potential and this has been the inspiration behind the exhibition"
Curated by KEMP
The exhibition is curated by KEMP, the man behind the urban and street art themed the KEMP Gallery and an artist in his own right.
"I'm both excited and honoured to be working with Pigsy again" says KEMP. "I love the honesty in his painting. It's very accessible even though there's a depth and complexity to it, which is very rare. I'm looking forward to sharing these new pieces with the public"
Hope Beer
Drinks will be provided at this exhibition by Hope Beer, an independent craft brewery based in Howth Co. Dublin, who are fantastic supporters of art and artists.
The exhibition runs from the 5th to the 8th October 2017
Pigsy's Secret is out as new show opens!
The Irish Times reports on PIGSY’s second Solo Art Exhibtion
Great write up in The Irish Times today about my forthcoming art show which is opening in Fumbally Exchange on 5th of Oct at 6pm
“He may design glorious light-filled extensions, classy conversions and one-off dream pads by day, but he’s also got dual identity, as street artist, Pigsy.
Of course these days, the term “street art” defines a style, rather than implying he’s out there after dark daubing on walls so consider McCoy’s work in the vein of the type of street art shown in Dublin’s KEMP Gallery”
PIGSY Solo Exhibition: Hard copy invites hot off the presses!
PIGSY Art Exhibition Invites
As well as a soft copy invite for my forthcoming exhibition, I made the decision to print a batch of invites also. Old school, I know, but I do think people like to pick up and read info in hard copy format still.
Dublin Art Show - the second solo exhibition of PIGSY
"Nostalgia's not what it was" opens on 5th of October 2017 in The Fumbally Exchange in Dame Lane, Dublin 2 at 6-9pm.
Running for 4 days and curated by Kemp of The Kemp Gallery, my exhibition gives you the opportunity to view my work in different settings including a fun "Street Night" on Friday 6-9pm with a DJ and premium craft beers which are provided by Dublin based brewery Hope Beer.
Additionally the show will be open 10am - 9pm Thursday to Saturday and also Sunday 11am- 4pm, 5th to 8th of October 2017.
When: Thursday, 5th of October 6-9pm
Where: Fumbally Exchange, 5 Dame Lane, Dublin City
Email: pigsy.art@gmail.com
"Nostalgia's Not What It Was" Opening Night @ Fumbally Exchange 5th Oct 2017
PIGSY Solo Exhibition in Fumbally Exchange, Dublin City
“Nostalgia’s Not What it Was” by PIGSY
My solo exhibition "Nostalgia's not what it was" opens on 5th of October 2017 in The Fumbally Exchange in Dame Lane, Dublin 2 at 6-9pm.
Running for 4 days and curated by Kemp of The Kemp Gallery, my exhibition gives you the opportunity to view my work in different settings including a fun "Street Night" on Friday 6-9pm with a DJ and premium craft beers which are provided by Dublin based brewery Hope Beer.
Additionally the show will be open 10am - 9pm Thursday to Saturday and also Sunday 11am- 4pm, 5th to 8th of October 2017.
Email pigsy.art@gmail.com for further info or to get on the list for the opening party or street night.
When: Thursday, 5th of October 6-9pm
Where: Fumbally Exchange, 5 Dame Lane, Dublin City
Email: pigsy.art@gmail.com
See you there!