"Hangman" Sculpture by Pigsy
Newly Created: “Hangman” Sculpture by Pigsy
PIGSY Sculpture
I created this guy here in Malaga, the hometown of Pablo Picasso, using found objects from my studio. I was inspired by the sculptural works of Picasso to create a 3D representation of my expressionist artwork on canvas. Created in Picasso’s hometown, this piece is expressionist in form and in the style of Hawkins Bolden. I created it from studio detritus and I had a lot of fun making it!
Sure, it’s a bit weird but if you like weird and wonderful artworks get in contact with me for further info!
Poetry & Art: Poetry is inspiring!
What inspires my art?
I’m often asked what inspires my art.
To answer I would have to say just about everything in life does, be it positive or negative.
Poetry & Art
Currently I am going through a phase of listening to a lot of poetry and I truly find this very inspiring. My favourite poem to listen to at this time is “When all the others were away at mass” by Seamus Heaney. It was voted the nation’s favourite poem. back in about 2015 in Ireland, and I can see why. Seamus Heaney is a poet that turns the mundane in to something mystical but he can also reach in to the human psyche and pull out raw emotion that can be painful. My wife can’t talk about his poem “Mid-Term Break” without tearing up at the line “A Four-Foot Box, A Foot for Every Year”.
“When all the others were away at Mass” is a reference to the mother-son relationship and this theme can be seen in some of my art pieces. I am currently working on an art work that relates to my mother and some of the emotions that I am working through in relation to the natural aging process and the cycle of life and death. Due to the rawness of it I am not ready to share the art work with the world just yet. But I will in time.
American Dyslexia Association features PIGSY short film
Dyslexia and PIGSY - the film
Thank you to the American Dyslexia Association for featuring the PIGSY short film by Mike Andrews on their website.
Click here to view the PIGSY film on my website.
This film had it’s premiere showing in the Galway Film Festival in 2018 and then went on to be shown in film festivals in the UK and Ireland. It features me and how my life has been as a person with dyslexia and I hope that it can be an inspiration to others with the condition.
European Dyslexia Week
Beyond being shared by many of the world’s Dyslexia Support Organisations, the film was also screened by Irish Libraries in 2021 to mark European Dyslexia Week. As someone who is married to a librarian, this was something I was so very proud to be part of ,as libraries do amazing work and provide the most fantastic supports and resources here in Ireland as well as running services from some of the most beautiful buildings that were provided by Andrew Carnegie and are now being maintained by library authorities all over Ireland. Andrew Carnegie left his mark all over the world and libraries are a testament to his legacy.
e-Services from your local library
Of course libraries have moved on to provide services beyond the traditional offerings within the bricks and mortar of the buildings. With e-Resource offerings there are free e-Books and e-Audio Books available (I love audio books!) and also things like educational courses that can be done at any time online. Additionally many libraries offer and lend such things as Tablets for Older People to stay connected, and I see that DLR libraries offer reading pens which will be of so much benefit to many different types of users.
With most services offered free of charge in libraries in Ireland, there has never been a better time to join up and see what is available. And if you aren’t interested in borrowing a book you can always attend some of the events that they host - there really is something for everyone from the library!
A Move to Malaga for PIGSY
A move for artist PIGSY from Ireland to Spain
New Spanish adventure!
It is the start of a new adventure for myself, Enid & Bones!
I am here in Spain (the beautiful city of Malaga) for the foreseeable future to PAINT!
New Art Studio in Malaga
We rented a little apartment along with studio space to work in (en La Casa Amarilla).
It’s a fantastic opportunity to move from Ireland at this time and I am feeling very positive about this amazing adventure for us.
2020 has been one hell of a year but I think this move is a positive one.
PIGSY is going to enter in to an immensely creative period!!
Contact me for further information
My artwork is available through The Designyard Gallery - do pop in to view if you are in Dublin in Ireland (say Hi to Ronan for me!) or you can also view available pieces online, with shipping available worldwide.
My studio is open to visitors (in a socially distanced manner) so get in contact if you want to visit me here in Malaga!
"Savage" : In-spire Gallerie, Group Show
“Savage” Group Show with In-Spire Gallery
31st of July 2020 at In-Spire Gallery, Dublin
PIGSY is part of the latest In-spire Galerie Group Show.
Curated by Dino Notaro, participants Include: PIGSY, Egoluna, Niamh O’Connor, Tracy Watt, Chris O’Hara, Jennifer Smith, Ignacio Arumburu, Aine O’Hara, Frank O’Dea & Marie Noonan McDermott
A Ramble through Ranelagh
Join artist PIGSY on a walk through Ranelagh!
Ranelagh, Dublin 6, Ireland
When you ramble through Ranelagh a small urban village in Dublin with an art canvas under your arm on a warm sunny May Day……and the route to the framing shop takes you down laneways, through the park, under alleyways, past a vintage Mini Cooper and on to “Framexperts” next to Nick’s Coffee.
Ireland is the best on days like this and it certainly makes me thankful that I live in a great village with fantastic amenities and shops like Ranelagh!
**Exciting News** I'm getting to paint THIS!
Art Commission
Dinosaur Bust
Out of the blue, I’ve been given the opportunity to paint this awesome Dinosaur Head. Fondly called “Rex” by the owner of this artwork, it’s an exciting commission and I’m looking forward to getting down to work on it.
Watch this space and let’s see this piece get the “Pigsyfication” treatment and watch it ROAR!
Custom Painted Dinosaur Head
And here’s the final custom painted bust. Newly named “Rex the Protector-saurus” (apt in times of covid) he takes pride of place on the wall in his home!
This was a really fun piece to paint - I had a great time doing it. Let me know what you think of him - is he terrifying?!
I think he is a definite head turner and makes for a serious interest piece in any living room. Unique statement art will always provoke a reaction which is a good thing in my opinion.
Pandemic Painting
“Phoenix Rising” - an expressionist response to lockdown in Dublin, Ireland in March 2020
We are living through a Pandemic.
So I am painting.
We will get through this. We will rise up. Stay positive!
Art always helps.
UPDATE! “Phoenix Rising” *SOLD*
“Phoenix Rising” is now SOLD and is in-situ in the new owner’s house as part of their art collection
2020 St Patricks Day in Ireland
2020: St Patricks Day Ireland
A strange day here in Ireland as the seriousness of the pandemic unfolds and the government takes steps to flatten the curve and stop the spread of Covid 19.
We need to be warriors
In Irish legend and according to the most popular account of Fionn MacCumhail’s death, he is not dead at all, rather, he sleeps in a cave, surrounded by the Fianna. One day he will awake and defend Ireland in the hour of her greatest need.
You are needed awake now Fionn not just for Ireland but for the world.
“Needed Awake Now”
1600mm W x 1600mm H Mixed Media on Canvas
Contact DesignYard Gallery for further information
Irish Squash Open
Irish Squash Open
The Irish Squash Open is on 21st - 25th of April 2020 in Fitzwilliam Lawn Tennis Club.
As both a squash player and an artist I’m happy to show you the poster for the event which features my artwork “Squash Soldiers”
The original artwork “Squash Soldiers” is on view in Fitzwilliam Tennis Club.
Edit. This blog was originally written on March 9th 2020. Of course as we all know now, Covid19 was beginning to take hold in Ireland and by March 15th the pubs were closed and the country was going in to lockdown. This meant events were cancelled as was the Irish Squash Open
Edit no. 2 - Feb 2020 - “Squash Soldiers” is now available as a print
New range of Limited Edition Prints now available for sale in the Designyard Gallery
Limited Edition Pigsy Prints in Designyard
Due to popular demand I’m pleased to announce that a new range of Pigsy limited edition prints are now available in a variety of sizes in the Designyard Gallery in South Frederick Street, Dublin, Ireland.
Designyard Gallery
The Designyard Gallery is open Monday to Saturday or you can visit online (click here) - worldwide shipping available.
Click through gallery below to see different prints that are for sale in the Designyard Gallery
Limited Edition PIGSY Prints with Custom Frames
PIGSY artworks are printed on Hannemuhle Fine Art Paper mounted on dibond. The prints are framed in a custom designed bespoke lime washed tray frame that has a very architectural aesthetic with a proportioned shadow gap.
The collection of prints are available on the Designyard website with worldwide shipping and the make the perfect gift for a newly married couple or a new home owner.
New Year 2020: Looking back on 2019
Goodbye 2019, Hello 2020
New Year is always a time that I end up looking at the past and considering my time since last Christmas. 2019 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 0f 2019…. (in no particular order)
“Pigsy” film is released online
I go sailing in Turkey and on to Greece - a really great trip and a definite highlight of the year - read about it here
Pigsy film screens in Fitzwilliam along with an exhibition of my work
Released a limited edition print of “The Extra-Ordinary Crucified For You”
Climbed Carrantuohil
3 of my pieces were in Incognito
I visited Key West in May for a very chilled out trip staying with Enid’s twin sister Amy
My painting “Duval Flag” is a part of the Key West Business Guild Pride month fundraiser
In squash I won the Fitzwilliam Vets Club Championship O/45
I paint my largest piece to date : “Squash Soldiers”
Part of the team that won the Leinster League and Cup O/40s
I travel to San Pedro to play Padel Tennis
I spend Christmas in Key West
My art work goes on sale in the Design Yard Gallery with representation by Ronan Campbell
Made a big plan for 2020…..watch this space
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!
Here’s to 2020!
I’m ending 2019 in a great place and I know 2020 will be even better! I’ve certainly got a lot of reasons to be cheerful.
Pictured below is some of the Pigsy Artwork available in the the Designyard Gallery, Dublin City
Put Art in your Cart for Christmas!
Christmas Presents for Art Lovers
Are you considering a gift of art for someone special this Christmas?
For the person who has everything art is the unique gift that they will be delighted to find under the Christmas tree this year.
I’m happy to present some perfect options below including both prints and originals.
See the Designyard Gallery website
“V.I.P”
1500mm W x 750mm H
Mixed Media on Canvas
“Cloigeann an Diabhal”
600mm W x 600mm
Mixed Media on canvas
“The Extra-Ordinary Crucified for You” (Prints & Original available from the Designyard Gallery)
“The Extra-Ordinary Crucified for You”
Framed Print
440mm x 345mm on Hannemuhle Fine Art Paper Mounted on Dibond with Lime Washed Tray Frame
"Pigsy" Short Film Screening & Art Showcase Event in Fitzwilliam Lawn Tennis Club
PIGSY Film Screening and Art Showcase
Fitzwilliam Lawn Tennis Club - Tuesday 3rd of October 2019
An Art Exhibition and Documentary Screening with Pigsy
PIGSY Art Showcase
Recently I got the opportunity to present a showcase of my artwork along with a screening of Mike Andrew’s “Pigsy” short film. After the film, Kevin Moore of Legacy Communications interviewed me live where we discussed my art, my process and growing up with Dyslexia and how art helps me with dyslexia.. I really enjoyed the whole event and there was a great response to my art work and the short film, with lots of interesting questions from the audience.
Art on Court!
I’ve always thought that a squash court would make the most amazing space to exhibit art. Well for this event I was given that very opportunity by the Fitzwilliam Club. My art was displayed in two courts - one being the incredible show court in the club with bleacher seating for an audience for over 100 people. The art looked spectacular in the court and a carpet was laid down on the court to protect the wood floor.
Signature Cocktail - The “Pigtail”
All in all it was a fun night - helped in part by the Pigsy signature cocktail - the “Pigtail” - designed for the evening by myself and the bar manager of Fitzwilliam Lawn Tennis Club!
Curator Steve Kemp, sets the scene:
Ciarán McCoy is a member of the Fitzwilliam Lawn Tennis Club
Pigsy paints abstract neo-expressionistic art pieces
Ciarán McCoy was born on the Northside of Dublin
Pigsy emerged at the blackboard of his primary school during break time
Ciarán McCoy was diagnosed with dyslexia as a child
Pigsy deals with his dyslexia by throwing off the shackles that have bound him in life and developing a free form style of painting where traditional structure and spelling mistakes are ignored
Ciarán McCoy plays squash
Pigsy uses whatever materials come to hand to produce his artworks but mainly spray paint, oil-paints-sticks, acrylics and chalk
Ciarán McCoy is an award winning architect
Pigsy has exhibited in Dublin, London and Florida
Ciarán McCoy established his architectural practise in 2005
Pigsy hosted a sold out show of his works in Fumbally Exchange, Dublin in 2017
Ciarán McCoy is an avid Irish speaker
On October 3rd two worlds crossed over as PIGSY exhibited his work where Ciarán McCoy usually comes to play
Ciarán McCoy is PIGSY is Ciarán McCoy
PIGSY is ART
PIGSY video directed by Mike Andrews
Squash Soldiers
“Squash Soldiers” by PIGSY an artwork about the game of squash by PIGSY
A large scale artwork about the competition of squash playing, now on display in Fitzwilliam Lawn Tennis Club
“Squash Soldiers”
Kemp writes about the latest Pigsy piece, a large scale art work that is now on display in the Fitzwilliam Lawn Tennis Club in Dublin, Ireland.
In his latest and largest art piece created to date, PIGSY presents us with “Squash Soldiers”, a study of the benefits of undertaking a competitive practise. This is illustrated through squash, a sport that the artist has played at a high level since his youth.
Competition in Sport
The main two figures in the piece represent the “professional” and the “amateur” player and the connection between their relative ambitions. PIGSY afford both forms an equal billing in the painting to illustrate that the standard you play at is not as important as the benefits accrued from the participation.
The artist speaks of the unspoken bond formed by the repetition of a mutual experience, the achievement of a personal set of goals and the feel good factor achieved by a participatory role as far more beneficial than merely “being good” or “winning trophies”
Equality & Inclusivity in sport
As is usual in his work, the piece is flush with metaphor. The ghostly audience represent the standard bearers of the sport looking on. Both a left and right handed player can be seen either side of the painting to symbolise equality and inclusivity.
Finally, the artist’s perennial fascination with the functions of the brain are dotted throughout the work. The piece is gridded out to represent a squash court but also the eight parts of the brain that are utilised during a competitive pursuit.
Art Mug
“Squash Soldiers” is now available on a printed enamel mug from the PIGSY merchandise store. Contact me to find out more….
Edit - Feb 2022
Squash Soldiers available as a limited edition print!
Squash Soldiers is available as a framed limited edition print. The print has a bespoke custom frame designed by Ciaran McCoy. It makes a great gift - contact me for further info.
Happy Bloomsday!
“Mo Laoch” (My Hero)
“Mo Laoch” Featuring James Joyce
It is a rarity that a character in a Pigsy piece is not a version of the artist himself but in this piece the figure is that of famous Irish writer James Joyce. The inspiration for this painting came after watching a documentary on Joyce and the realised connection between him and the artist's uncle, also James, whom he never met but who's house he now owns. Was Joyce talking about people like James in his celebrated novel Dubliners? Could James the Uncle have been a role model and mentor for Pigsy for he was also a poet and artist. The title "Mo Laoch" is Gaelic for "My Hero", a reference to the actual feeling for Joyce and the potentially stronger feeling for his uncle that, alas, never existed. Note that Joyce holds the red spelling book, Pigsy's nemesis, an item depicted in many of his works to signify his struggle with dyslexia.
By Kemp
See Designyard for available PIGSY prints
“Mo Laoch” prints are available from Designyward in Dublin, contact Ronan Campbell for details.
The large scale “Mo Laoch” PIGSY artwork, featuring James Joyce, is also available through Designyard
James Joyce “Art Wear”
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.
