Where to buy art supplies in Madrid, Spain......
Are you an artist looking for a list of where to buy art supplies in Madrid?
Every time I land in a new city (I’m currently on an Art Residency here in Madrid) I seek out the local art shops. So to save you the work here’s a list of art stores in Madrid to check out!
However, first things first, before you set out on your search for artistic supplies, you need to arm yourself with a metro card so that you can easily and cheaply travel all over Madrid. Trust me on this, you do not want to be walking the city in the heat of July which was when I arrived from Malaga to start my Art Residency here in Madrid.
The metro is easy to get to grips with and generally is not too packed, if you travel at off peak hours. And if you are carrying big rolls of linen it is probably best to take the metro during off peak hours so that you are not trying to find the room in the carriage for your large items.
Not only is it a really easy form of public transport, it is also cheap as chips with a journey costing around 60c using the metro card. As a Dubliner from Ireland, I appreciate the Madrid underground system so much as regretfully there is still not a single underground line going from Dublin airport to the city and beyond, even though there has been talk and planning for one by numerous governements over the last few decades. But I digress…..see below for the list of art shops in Madrid.
And if you are looking for art supply stores in other Spanish cities like Malaga, you can click on my blog to read more about this very topic. And watch out for a future blog post, on my website, all about my Art Residency here in Madrid.
Art Shop no. 1 - Coronado
“Coronado Bellas Artes” on Calle Santa Engracia, Madrid
When I arrived in Madrid to start my art residency, I was directed to Coronado Fine Art Shop which is on Calle Santa Enngracia which is handily located very close to Cuatro Caminos Metro Station.
As soon as I stepped in to this shop I knew I would find what I was looking for as it was well organised and very well laid out. Along with that there were multiple shop assistants who all offered assistance as needed, not to mention a friendly greeting!
It looks like a family ran business and the man who assisted me explained that as well as having the phyical shop in Madrid they also fulfil orders online and send artistic supplied all over the world. The website link to Coronado is here if you want to contact them directly.
As well as selling art supplies for artists, they also offer a framing service with a variety of frame options to choose from down the back of the shop. For me it was all about canvas and paint and I was also looking for some indian ink and acid free glue. I was able to get it all and chose a roll of canvas over the stretched canvas. Using rolled canvas at the moment is better for me as I am travelling so it is easier to transport paintings this way.
See below for pics of Coronado and some of their art stock
Art Shop no. 2 - Hartem
“Hartem Art Shop”, on Calle del Duque de Rivas, Madrid
The next shop I visited is “Hartem” which is a very professional and smart looking art shop. It is located on Calle del Duque de Rivas and is laid out over two floors. It is a very well organised shop with a large selection of art books for sale as well as art supplies. The downstairs is large and honestly I can’t see how they couldn’t have every single thiing that you are looking for. They even have a whole central section dedicated to spray cans!
However, if you can’t find what you are looking for instore, they have an impressive looking website that you can order online with free delivery when you spend over a certain amount.
I was very impressed by this place and it may very well be one of the best art shops I have ever visited in any country. Of course, in places like this it is always hard to not overspend so I was careful to limit myself to exactly what I needed on this visit.
See below for pics of Hartem Madrid and some of the art products that they sell
Art Shop no. 3 - Pinturas Hurtado
Pinturas Hurtado on Calle de Pamplona, (Tetuan) Madrid
So here’s a great tip if you are looking to save money (and who isn’t?!). For cheaper spray paint always check out local painter decorator supply shops. I visited Pinturas Hurtado in Tetuan on Calle de Pamplona and I bought spray cans at about half the price I generally pay in specialist art supply stores. So I recommend this place for spray paint!
PIGSY on Youtube - the latest PIGSY art video is out!
PIGSY Art Focus Series is on YouTube, click below to read more
PIGSY Art Focus Series
An indepth look through video at the work of neo-expressionist Artist PIGSY
The most recent Art Focus video is now available to watch on Youtube. The series features Enid Bebbington talking about PIGSY artworks, with this video focussing on a particular painting titled “My Parietal Marks”.. PIGSY is currently based in Madrid, Spain for an Art Residency for the month of July, but the video was filmed in Malaga, Spain.
Add PIGSY Art to your Art Collection today!
PIGSY intuuitive artwork is available with worldwide shipping. Contact PIGSY directly for further information. And to keep in touch with PIGSY and see what he is currently working on, check out the PIGSY instagram here.
For more PIGSY art focus videos, click here.
PIGSY on the Tube
PIGSY on Film (on YouTube), click below to read more
PIGSY on Film
Here’s all of the PIGSY Youtube clips gathered together in one blog spot.
Happy Watching!
EDIT> 27 June 2024
Here’s the latest PIGSY Art Focus video that was published to YouTube in June 2024. The video focusses on PIGSY’s “My Parietal Marks” which is now in a private art collection in Spain
"Elixir of Life"
“Elixir of Life”, presented as part of “First Things Last” Art Exhibition, click below to read more
“Elixir of Life”, presented as part of “First Things Last” Art Exhibition
“Elixir of Life” was sold as part of PIGSY’s recent solo exhibtion in La Casa Amarilla Malaga and is now hanging as part of an art collection in Malaga Spain.
As can be seen the painting reads from left to right with dark to light an evident and prominent aspect to the artwork. The intention when creating this painting was to allow my feelings take over in order to see what the result was. The right hand side of the painting is all about cloaking negativity and harmful things in life like stress, worries, fears. When the cloak is pulled back to the left there is the “protector” who negates all of these things. The colours, as mentioned above, are reflective of the natural setting but are also about the feeling of serenity and calm and being in the right place at the right time. Literally “what feels right, is right”.
The painting, in the main, is vertical except for the very horizontal left hand side which features the figure representing protection..The intention of the painting is to evoke feelings and emotions of calmness and tranquility. It was painted in Malaga with the colours being expressively reflective of the colours of the night sky in Malaga alongside the mountainous area of the art collector’s home. When I say the colors are “expressively reflective” I mean that they are not a direct movement of the colours I see in nature on to the canvas but instead it is the emotions that I feel when I see these colours and it is these emotions that I am conveying in the painting.
“Elixir of Life 1”
A smaller scale painting in the elixir / protector series is available. Contact me for for info and size.
"First Things Last" by PIGSY at La Casa Amarilla, Malaga
PIGSY’s Solo Spanish Exhibition, click below to read more
PIGSY’s Solo Spanish Exhibition
“First Things Last” by PIGSY 23rd May - 25th May 2024 in Malaga, Spain
“Elixir of Life” the show stopper artwork in PIGSY’s solo exhibition “First Things Last”
Here’s the photos of the opening night for my “First Things Last” solo art exhibition which opening on Thursday 23rd of May in La Casa Amarilla Contemporary Art & Cultural Centre in Malaga. I’ve also included a few pictures from the days after the opening, with the exhibition closing after a very successful showing on the 25th of May.
All White after the Night!
PIGSY’s “First Things Last” solo art exhibition , click below to read more
PIGSY’s “First Things Last” solo art exhibition
Over the period 23 - 25 May, I presented my showcase exhibition "First Things Last" in La Casa Amarilla in their Calle Santos Studios. The work that I exhibited were artpieces that I created while I worked in Art Residency in the La Casa Amarilla Contemporary Art and Culture Centre over the previous 6 weeks. The artworks were themed around the subject of "Interlocked" and examined how seemingly unrelated things are connected.
Exhibition title “First Things Last”
Prior to the exhibition, I explained that the title of the exhibition comes from a variation on a quote in the famed Quentin Tarantino movie Reservoir Dogs, and for me "First Things Last" explains the concept for this art residency and the importance of the creation of art during the period in residency. "In effect I start out with a blank white canvas and then move on to the production stage where I paint on the canvas. The next part of the process is to show the work created in the exhibition at the end. However, this is not the end for the works of art as the very next day after the exhibition finishes I will be painting over all of the works that have not sold or been reserved during the exhibition. I will be re-painting them white which will bring me (lastly) back to the first part of the process. It is a circular process, and it is literally, First Things Last".
Right sizing
Currently I am going through a period of actual physical movement as I travel around Europe. This means that I am not physically tied to one place. Not being tied to one place gives me flexability and fluidity but it also means that I can’t amass things as I am limited in what I can carry as I travel through different countries.
I’ve also made a mind shift and am generally in a period of “right sizing” which means that I am looking at physical things on a need or want basis. My options in regard to the PIGSY artworks are to sell them and have them hanging in homes in order for them to be enjoyed by their collectors. Or I could place the artworks in to storage. If they get placed in to storage they are hidden away, and while this protects their value it means they are not on show and they are not being enjoyed by others. And what is the point of that?!
And so it was on Sunday after the completion of the exhibition that I wrapped up the sold paintings for delivery to their new homes, and then set about painting over the few unreserved pieces in the colour white. As I completed the process, I felt that it was a beautiful thing and it felt very right and very cathartic.
Exhibition success
After a successful art residency in LCAmalaga along with an incredible solo exhibition, I now have a clean slate to create more of my exuberant statement artworks with many of the other artworks going on to grace the walls of homes here in Malaga and also some making their way to Ireland!
A big thanks to Director of La Casa Amarilla David Burbano and Creative Director Roy Laguna who curated this exhibition - I couldn’t have done it without them.
In my next blog I will share pics of the opening night - thanks to all who attending on this evening and over the other days of the exhibition, it was great to talk to you all and I am really grateful for all of the positive comments and engagement with my art. Watch this space for the full report on the exhibition……
Ranelagh Arts features PIGSY news
From Ranelagh to Malaga......PIGSY follows in the footsteps of RHA Artist George Campbell, click below to read more
From Ranelagh to Malaga......PIGSY follows in the footsteps of George Campbell
Ranelagh Arts reports on PIGSY news from Malaga
The Gloss "Insiders Guide to Malaga" by PIGSY
“Insiders Guide to Malaga” featuring PIGSY by Penny McCormick of The Gloss, click below to read more
“Insiders Guide to Malaga” featuring PIGSY by Penny McCormick of The Gloss
Irish artist PIGSY gives all of his tips to discover the best of Malaga
Gloss Article: Insider’s Guide to Malaga
To read all of PIGSY’s tips for visiting Malaga, click here to see the orginal Gloss digital article by Penny McCormick.
And if you are in Malaga, make sure to call in to La Casa Amarilla Art and Cultural Centre & Gallery - tell them PIGSY sent you!
Sur in English, featuring PIGSY
Journalist Tony Bryant writes about PIGSY and his Malaga exhibition, click below to read more
Journalist Tony Bryant writes about PIGSY
Irish Artist PIGSY’s latest art exhibition “First Things Last” will be shown in La Casa Amarilla Studios on Calle Santos, over 23 - 24 of May 2024. See below for the Sur in English article about the art exhibition.
PIGSY’s “First Thing Last” Exhbition
“First Things Last” is the culmination of PIGSY’s art residency in La Casa Amarilla Contemporary Art & Cultural Centre. The showcase opens on Thursday 23rd of May 2024 at 7pm in the Calle Santos Studios. It continues on Friday 24th. See here for more on my website about the PIGSY exhibition and what will happen to some of the artworks after the show!
Business Plus Magazine, featuring PIGSY
Business Plus features PIGSY's solo exhibition in Malaga, Spain - click below to read more
Save the Date >> PIGSY Art Showcase
PIGSY's showcase in La Casa Amarilla, Malaga, Spain - click below to read more
Save the date - Reserva la fecha!
PIGSY Art Residency Showcase
What: Art Exhibition of PIGSY
Where: La Casa Amarilla, Malaga
When: 23rd May 2024 at 7pm to 9pm, and continuing on Friday 24th of May: 10am to 1.30pm & 5pm to 8pm
PIGSY’s Art Residency in the studios of La Casa Amarilla Contemporary Art & Cultural Center will culminate in an art showcase of the artwork created while PIGSY was working in this residency.
The working title of the series of artworks that I will be creating while in residency in Spain is "Interlocked" which as a theme will consider the relationship between things that don't seem to be connected, and you can be the first to see these bold edgy expressionist art works (and what are very different from my usual works) which will be presented on the night of the exhibition.
Not only will you be the first to see these artworks, you may also be the last!!
Any of the artworks that are not sold or reserved at the exhibition will be painted over in white the very next day.. Through the process of the repainting of the artworks in white, it is giving PIGSY a “clean slate” as he moves on from Malaga, Spain to another country to continue his art journey.
Artworks can also be snapped up through PIGSY’s instagram as they not only will be physically shown on the night in the La Casa Amarilla Gallery but will also be shown digitally on PIGSY’s instagram. Doing this means that the artworks can be viewed by not just everyone in the Malaga / Marbella area but also by everyone worldwide who has an interest in PIGSY and his artworks.
To read more about the Malaga art residency, click here and we hope to see you on the night!
Exhibition Visit: "Vino - Arte y Symbolo" at the Fundación Unicaja, Malaga
Fundación Unicaja Malaga Exhibition “Vino - Art and Symbol”, click below to read more
Fundación Unicaja Malaga Exhibition “Vino - Art and Symbol”
In conjunction with the Vivanco Museum of Wine Culture of Briones (La Rioja)
In Vino Veritas…..
I had seen that the last day of the “Vino, Arte y Symbolo” exhibition in the Fundación Unicaja, Malaga was on Sunday so I mentioned it to some friends who also wanted to visit and we made sure to get to the venue before closing at 2pm on that day.
I wanted to visit this exhibition for two reasons. The first being that the exhibition looked really interesting and had some modern art that I wanted to see (Warhol, Picasso and Lichenstein) along with art from early mesopatamian period up to current times. Additionally I was interested in seeing the building itself as it is very distinctive and decorative looking from the outside and is located centrally near the cathedral. It is a building of stature having been the bishop’s palace at one point in time.
It was a fascinating exhbition with the common theme of the representation of wine in art (what’s not to like about that!) however, the works that I was particularly interested in were the more modern artworks by Chagall, Warhol, Lichtenstein, Tápies, Juan Genovés, Picasso, Joaquín Sorolla, Juan Gris and Miquel Barceló.
Sunday Morning Museum Visit
As I mentioned it was the last day of the exhbiton so I felt lucky to have got to see it. It was a lovely activity to get up to on a Sunday morning, and we followed it with a coffee in the sun, for the four of us, in Recyclo Cafe in Plaza Enrique García Herrera.
After our visit to this art exhibition, we were served our coffees in very appropriate coffee cups with an art theme!
An artist has to eat.....and feed the soul!
An artist has to eat.....and feed the soul! Click below to read more
Friday night fun in Malaga
Last Friday was fun with plans made to see the symphony at Teatro Cervantes in the centre of Malaga City.
Uvedoble Restaurant
However, before going to the orchestral performance we went for an early dinner in Uvedoble which is a small restaurant, located near the Roman ruins, that serves inventive modern Spanish tapas. It was my first time visiting this restaurant and I’ve been thinking of the food since I visited and will make sure to go back again! Of course the company always helps too and we were with a group of 5 and as well as sharing and tasting all of the plates we had good conversation over the tasty food and drinks.
Pictured is what was a particularly nice dish “Black Noodles and Squid”. It was presented beautifully and had a stunning look to it, along with a really unusual taste. I highly recommend ordering this dish if you visit Uvedoble on a visit to Malaga.
Philharmonic Orchestra of Malaga in Teatro Cervantes
And then after dinner it was on to Teatro Cervantes which is located on Calle Ramos Marín near to Plaza Uncibay. Teatro Cervantes is a beautiful old theater that was built in 1870 then restored in recent times after falling in to disrepair in the 1950’s and being used as a movie theatre. As well as being a very ornate building, the showstopper feature in the building is in the main auditorium which features “Allegory of the History, Industry and Trade of Málaga” which is a massive oil painting by artist Bernard Ferrándiz.
The symphony was performed by the Malaga Philharmonic Orchestra and was conducted by Mallorcan José María Moreno. The excellent soloist was Cello Player Senja Rummukainen of Finland.
All in all a brilliant night of food, conversation and music that definitely fed the body and soul!
Hanging Art - Measure twice, and measure again!
How to hang art - there’s an art to it! Click below to read more
How to hang art - there’s an art to it!
Hanging Art: Measure Twice, and Measure Again!
Art isn’t only about creating; it’s also about presenting. Hanging art well is as important as the work itself. As an artist who came from an architectural background, I bring a meticulous approach to art installation. My mentor always reminded me of the crucial rule, “Measure twice, and measure again,” and this advice serves me well. Taking the time to hang artwork correctly adds both beauty and presence to a space.
The Art of Hanging Art
Hanging art may seem simple, but there’s definitely an art to it. As a professional artist, I treat every installation with care and precision, using a formula developed over years. Generally, my rule of thumb for most paintings is to place the center of the piece between 155cm and 165cm from the floor. This height aligns the artwork with the natural line of sight, making it comfortable and enjoyable for viewers.
Step-by-Step Process
When I’m hanging my pieces for exhibitions or shows, I take the time to get the measurements and alignment just right. This process includes:
Choosing the right wall space based on the artwork’s size and orientation.
Measuring the height carefully to achieve the 155cm to 165cm center guideline.
Double-checking alignment to ensure the piece hangs level and is properly spaced relative to other works.
My method ensures a consistent look while giving each artwork the space it deserves. And after a successful hang, there’s no better way to celebrate than with a glass of champagne—especially when offered by a delighted collector.
Art in the Home: A Personal Touch
For me, one of the highest honors is when collectors invite me into their homes to help select the perfect spot for their new Pigsy artwork. It’s an experience that allows for genuine connection and collaboration, making the process as personal as the piece itself.
Recently, I had the pleasure of installing a work titled “My Parietal Marks” in a beautiful home in Malaga, Spain. This piece had already traveled from Spain to Dublin for an exhibition and then made its way back to be enjoyed in its permanent setting. The piece not only brings its visual presence but also incorporates augmented reality (AR), which can be viewed using the Artivive app. This feature adds an extra dimension, making it a true conversation starter when viewed with friends and family.
The Impact of Augmented Reality in Art
Not all of my works include AR, but those that do create a unique, layered experience. Using the Artivive app, viewers can interact with the artwork, seeing it come to life in new ways. It’s especially rewarding to see people engage with these pieces during social occasions, where technology and art meet to create memorable experiences. For a glimpse of “My Parietal Marks” in action, check out my Instagram post where it’s showcased in AR.
The Joy of a Job Well Done
Hanging artwork is a careful process that blends technical precision with aesthetic instinct. I’ve found that taking my time with each piece, whether it’s for an exhibition or an intimate home setting, allows the art to resonate fully within the space. In the end, it’s all about creating an environment where art can be appreciated at its best - because when it’s done right, both the artist and the viewer feel the satisfaction of a job well done.
Malaga time!
PIGSY is back in Malaga, click below to read more
PIGSY Returns to Malaga – A New Chapter in Art Creation
Embracing my Art Residency at La Casa Amarilla
It’s thrilling to announce: PIGSY is back in Malaga, and it feels incredible to return! After spending a few transformative years in Ireland, working at the dynamic Studios of Ranelagh Arts, the opportunity to create art in Malaga’s prestigious La Casa Amarilla was too compelling to pass up. This renowned space offers artists an inspiring environment, perfect for nurturing creativity and pushing artistic boundaries.
The Evolving Artistic Hub of La Casa Amarilla
Since my last time in Malaga, there have been exciting changes at La Casa Amarilla. The gallery has moved to a new and vibrant space on Calle Postigo de Arance, while the original studios remain on Calle Santos. Under the visionary direction of David Burbano and Roy Laguna, this contemporary art gallery in Malaga has doubled its energy, becoming even more of a cornerstone for the city’s art scene.
Preparing to Create – My First Days Back
I arrived on a Friday evening, and with the keys to my new art studio in hand, I couldn’t wait to dive into the work. Saturday was spent visiting Malaga’s best art supply stores to stock up on essentials. This brought back fond memories of my solo exhibition, “I Went to Mass,” hosted at La Casa Amarilla during the pandemic.
Top Art Supply Shops in Malaga
Iberia Arts: Located near the market, this shop boasts an impressive selection of spray paints and art supplies. It’s easy to spend hours browsing their shelves.
Olimpia Arts: A favorite for canvases, as they hand-stretch and make their own products. I appreciate working with materials crafted in Malaga—it adds a unique connection to the city in my art.
Art on the Move – New Techniques and Canvas Choices
Given my upcoming travels, I opted for rolls of canvas instead of pre-stretched ones, allowing for more mobility. To make transportation easier, I plan on working with smaller canvas sizes compared to my past projects. This approach ensures that my art can travel with me while maintaining the integrity and essence of my work.
A Hidden Gem for Artists – “The Place” in Soho
My third stop was The Place in Soho on Cordoba Street. This eclectic space, a mix of tattoo parlor, hair salon, clothing store, and graffiti supply shop, is perfect for finding specialized items like skinny spray caps. While in the area, I recommend checking out Shepherd Fairey’s “Paz y Libertad” mural near CAC Malaga—an impressive piece that adds to the neighborhood's artistic allure.
Studio Showcase – An Invitation to Experience My Art
One of the most exciting parts of my art residency in Malaga is the upcoming studio showcase. This exhibition will feature all the work I create during my time at La Casa Amarilla. Although the date is yet to be confirmed, I’m already looking forward to opening my studio doors to visitors and sharing the fruits of my creativity.
Visit My Studio – An Open Door Policy
I maintain an open-door policy at my studio. Whether you’re an art lover, a curious traveler, or a local, reach out through my website or Instagram for a personal tour of my work. I’d love to share my journey and inspiration with you.
Spread the word to any art enthusiasts visiting Malaga—they won’t want to miss this unique experience!
PIGSY Solo Art Exhibition in Malaga
Here’s a video of my last solo show in La Casa Amarilla - it was back during the pandemic which seems like a long time ago at this point!!
Custom PIGSY Leather Jacket
A bespoke custom PIGSY designed leather jacket, click below to read more
PIGSY Skull Style
Recently I was commissioned to paint a bespoke PIGSY on a leather jacket. This was a fun commission that I eagerly accepted.
As of late I am painting a particular skull which could be said has become a signature PIGSY skull.
Over the years I’ve painted some interesting things like a dinosaur head bust and pairs of Nikes (always love painting these) but this was the first time I have painted a leather jacket. For this piece of clothing I used a combination of spray paint and also Angelus leather paint.
Art Fashion Collision
As usual, and in typical PIGSY art style, I included text as well as images in the painting. Quite epic, don’t you think?!
After I had painted the jacket I took a few pictures of my “model” (my wife!) on the streets of Ranelagh wearing the jacket. She wandered from Ranelagh Arts Centre across to the Luas Station and back.
Looks pretty cool, kind of reminescent of a biker gang jacket with patches sewn on the leather. I think the owner of the newly created bespoke PIGSY fashion art piece will be very pleased with the final result and she can wear with pride!
PIGSY's "Squash Soldiers"
“Squash Soldiers” A large scale artwork by PIGSY
“Squash Soldiers” Artwork by PIGSY
“Squash Soldiers”, a large scale artwork that features the sport of Squash.
The “Squash Soldiers” painting was originally commissioned for the prestigious Show Court Area at Fitzwilliam Lawn Tennis Club (FLTC), accompanied by a special limited edition print. The frame of this exclusive print on display in FLTC now also includes the signatures of legendary squash players who have graced and played at the club and it is a a true collector’s item for squash enthusiasts.
In 2023, the Irish Squash Open proudly adopted "Squash Soldiers" as its official branding, with the artwork prominently displayed at the front entrance of the Fitzwilliam Lawn Tennis Club. It was an honor to see my work welcome world-class squash players to this esteemed event, elevating the tournament’s visual identity (see images below).
In addition to the painting and prints, Squash Soldiers mugs have been a hit with players and fans alike. These mugs, featuring the dynamic artwork, have gained popularity with squash enthusiasts from around the world, further spreading the spirit of the game and my art to a global audience.
Own a Limited Edition "Squash Soldiers" Print – Only 10 Available!
An exclusive limited edition print of the “Squash Soldiers” painting is now available for those who want to own a piece of this iconic squash-inspired artwork. With only 10 limited edition prints ever produced, this is a rare opportunity for passionate squash fans and art collectors alike to acquire a truly unique piece. This limited run ensures that "Squash Soldiers" remains a highly sought-after artwork, available only to a select few. If you're interested in securing one of these collectible prints, please contact me directly to reserve yours before they're gone.
Squash Soldiers Art Mugs
I’m excited to share that a large order for Squash Soldiers printed mugs has just been fulfilled and is now packaged, ready for delivery! Knowing that my Squash Soldiers mugs will soon be in the hands of squash players worldwide brings me great joy. It’s a wonderful way for people to enjoy art in their everyday lives, combining creativity with functionality in a unique, practical form.
One of the standout features of these mugs is their enamel construction, making them not only durable but also perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're into camping, hiking, or other outdoor pursuits, these enamel mugs are designed to withstand the elements, making them an ideal companion for both adventure and relaxation. With this blend of art and practicality, Squash Soldiers mugs add a touch of style to your outdoor activities while celebrating the spirit of the game.
Discover the Story Behind the "Squash Soldiers" Painting in the PIGSY Feature Video
To learn more about the inspiration and creative process behind the “Squash Soldiers” painting, check out the PIGSY feature video below. This exclusive video offers an in-depth look at the artwork that has become iconic in the world of squash and beyond. Dive into the story behind this dynamic piece and discover how it connects art with the sport's vibrant culture.
JoLT Literary Journal
Trinity’s “JoLT” Journal of Literary Translations
Trinity’s “JoLT” Journal of Literary Translations
JoLT is Ireland’s only journal dedicated exclusively to transation.
The theme of the most recent edition of JoLT, was “Reflections” and it was a great honour for my artwork “Disintegrating Memories” to be selected for inclusion in the journal along with the great translated writings and other contemporary artworks.
Special mention goes to the editorial staff who included the following: Eohan Conway (Editor-in-Chief), Caroline Loughlin (Deputy Editor), Oonah Delargy (General Assistant Editor), Alex Payne (General Assistant Editor) and Lara Prideaux (Art Editor). Along with Language Editors Ilaria Lico, Ioana Raducu, Ailis Halligan, Nicole Battu, Eduardo Pincheiro, Michell Chan Schmidt, Sinéad Ní Cheallaigh and Layout & Design Editor Ayushman Kumar Yadev. A job well done by all!
Writers and Artist Contributers include Eduardo Torres, Giulia Nati, Naemi Victoria, Lara Prideaux, Seoirse Swanton, Aimilia Varla, Greta Chies, Ruairí Goodwin, Tomasz Balcerkiewicz, Helena Gelman, Theresa Wiesweg, Penny Stuart, PIGSY, Oiver Fisk, Adam Dunbar, Liam Frabetti, Hazel Scott, Sam Priego, Vicente Velasques, Alanh Kennedy, Aurora Ventoruzzo and Keith Payne.
JoLT is available on the Trinity College’s Dublin City Centre Campus or online as an Issuu publication - see the link to JoLT here.
“Disintegrating Memories”
The artwork “Disintegrating Memories” delves in to the theme of reflections and is available as a framed original artwork on the PIGSY website. These paper studies can be hung individually or in a grouping to create a larger scale art work for your art collection.
Contact me for further information
A visit to Dun Laoghaire Church
Dun Laoghaire, a visit to County Dublin
Dun Laoghaire visit
Dun Laoghaire is coastal town in the Dun Laoghaire Rathdown area that is easily access from Dublin City by the Dart Train Service. For me it was only a short train ride from Landsdowne Dart Station but there is also the option to take the bus (as the Bagatelle song goes!) from Dublin City including the 46A. Fold up bikes can be brought on the train so I brought my Brompton with me, which meant that I could cycle around Dun Laoghaire with ease and see lots of things on this visit.
My trip to Dun Laoghaire was in order to visit the modernist St Michaels Church to see the magnificent architecture and artistic stained glass along with other sculptural artworks in the church.
The original church in this town which dated back a few hundred years was burnt down at some time in the 1960’s with only the spire remaining. The current Church, designed by architects Naish O’Dowd, Sean Rothery and Pierce McKenna, was then built, in 1973, in the place of the old church with the spire still in existence.
Built of concrete, the church is a gloriously uplifting space with light wells that flood illuminated colour through the stained glass in to the inners of the church. Beautifully proportioned it does not dominate surroundings but nestles in to the space and in actuality gives a nod to the old with the original spire being a feature of the town.
It is a building of pure perfection with special details from the lighting which were made of dropped shuttered concrete squares, to the seating to the feature stone altar and baptism font. A building of its time, but also ageless, and will be used by all as long as people have the desire to congregate. The inhabitants of Dun Laoghaire are lucky to have such an awesome church building in their area.
I was in awe of the simplicity of the altar with the statue of Jesus suspended above it. Quite beautiful. And the cleverness of the stained glass windows alluding to a shape of a cross. Subtle symbolism in all its glory.
Deceiving in size, from the outside the building does not give away the generous proportions that are inside that give way to a calm serene space. I am a big fan of this type of design and it truly is a modern wonder of concrete architecture!
Dun Laoghaire Town
And after visiting the church there is lots more to see in the seaside town of Dun Laoghaire. You can wander around the planned to be pedestrianised town and then head down to the Lexicon Library, followed by a stroll on the pier. Or at the other end of the town you can visit the stunning Oratory which was hand painted in totality by one Dominican nun Sr. Concepta Lynch over many years. With all the sight seeing done, it might then be time to go get a bite to eat and for this I would recommend going to Casper & Giumbini’s for tasty food in a buzzy atmosphere - or keep it casual and eat some fish and chips on the pier while looking out to sea.
And afterwards no visit to Dun Laoghaire would be complete without a visit to the institution that is Teddy’s for an ice cream!!
"Sound & Vision" coming soon to Ranelagh!
“Sound & Vision” Art Exhibition
“Sound & Vision” Art Exhibition
A Slow Lane Gallery presentation by Curator Dino Notaro
Where: Ranelagh Arts Centre
When: 1st March - 30th March 2024
Curator Dino Notaro of Dublin’s Slow Ane Gallery, brings together the work of a group of Dublin based multinational contemporary artists in this month long sensory exhibition that explores the theme of sound and vision.
Featured artists, selected by Dino, include:
PIGSY
Tim Bingham
Eraquaria
Patricia Kelly
Zane Sutra
Andie McGovern
Nickie Harrington
Frank O’Dea
Jacinta O’Reilly
Sarah Keegan
This is a not to be missed show in Ranelagh Arts that brings together and showcases edgy works of art, music and photography by a unique grouping of contemporary artists with a large PIGSY artwork taking centre stage.
The PIGSY artwork that I will be showing is called “X I can See” which I created while artist in residence in Ranelagh Arts.It’s a large scale piece painted on board and is a multilayered provative art work with subtle and subliminal messaging. It’s great to show this artwork along with other contemporary art in this showcase that has been orchestrated by curator Dino Notaro.
Also on the opening night there will be a choir performance which brings together the sound element of the show. All in all a great night of entertainment so make sure you mark the date in your diary and see you there!!
Opening Night!
“Sound & Vision” exhibition opening was on a very snowy day on the first day of Spring, here in Dublin. Who would have thought that we would have heavy snow on the 1st of March??!!
Anyway, not withstanding, the dire weather the opening was absolutely brilliant with a large crowd in attendance and with the exhibition open for a further month, there will be plenty of other visitors over the next while.
Here’s a few pics from opening night, and if you didn’t get in then, make sure you visit during the next few weeks!
“Sound”
There will be a rotation of artworks with new pieces going on display every week, while the “Sound” theme continues through the exhibition with a performance by the Dublin LGBT+ Casual Choir on Friday the 8th of March at 6pm in Ranelagh Arts. All welcome.