About Insta Hashtags.....

Instagram Hashtags for Artists

Have you given any thought to what art hashtags to use on your artist Instagram profile? If you have you probably have a few favorite ones that you use regularly with good results. This is a good thing as hashtags help to categorize your posts and should assist the instagram logarithm (debatable though) in directing your posts to the relevant instagram audiences which brings more visability to you, the artist, and your art. That’s the aim anyway!

By including a mix of popular, niche, and location-based hashtags, you can target specific communities, attract followers interested in your style, and even connect with galleries and art collectors. For artists looking to grow their online presence, utilizing the right hashtags on Instagram is essential.

The instagram advice and general consensus is that you should use about 5 solid appropriate hashtags on each of your instagram posts. For me the instagram hashtags I use regularly include ones like #art #artexhibition #artist #artcollector #loveart and so on. Additionally I use #PIGSY so that I literally point to myself, PIGSY, as a hashtag which creates a unique instagram identity for me, and my art, and encourages followers to engage with my work

#Studiovibes #Wordoftheday

However, there are two other hashtags that I use - one of which I believe was unique to me on instagram (or perhaps I came up with it)) and it seems to have caught on a bit, as I see a lot of other artists use it.

This is the hashtag #Studiovibes which I always hashtag my insta posts, on either my feed or story, if I feature an image of me in my art studio. Simple really but makes a lot of sense.

The other hashtag that I use possibly in a unique manner is the #Wordoftheday hashtag. As an artist with dyslexia, words stick in my head and can bug me unless I get them out. One way to do this is to paint about them and the other way I’ve come up with it is to share them on my Insta Story with the hashtag #Wordoftheday. Now this is a popular hashtag and I#m certainly not claiming I coined it. However, perhaps I am using it in a different manner to others who use it. Either way it’s something I like to do because it does help with my dyslexic mind and it also seems to be something that my Insta followers like and I get a lot of engagement with it when I share a #Wordoftheday.

#Irishabroad

Another hashtag I like to use is #Irishbroad which is a great way to connect and see what the Irish diaspora is getting up to all over the world. It comes in to its own leading up to St Patricks Day but can be used throughout the year at all times to share Irish success stories. As an “Irish Artist Abroad” it’s great to be able to use this hashtag to share what I’m getting up to in the art world here in Spain and beyond. This is a hashtag that is not art specific but in fact is more mainstream and used by a lot of Irish influencers so it is a popular and well used hashtag. If you are Irish, and are abroad, why not give it a go?!

Instagram for Artists & Art Galleries

Do you use Instagram to market your art?

For me using instagram is very effective as an artist or art galleryy. It gives me the opportunity to very quickly release newly created art to my audience in a quick real time way - literally a click of a button at the end of my fingers on my phone and saves me a lot of work because I don’t have to update my website which can be time consuming.

Instagram also allows me to not only introduce my art to a wider audience but also connect with other artists in the creative community. There is no border limits to this and I’ve met some really interesting people on instagram doing awesome work in their respective studios. It’s a way to network, collaborate, market, support and celebrate art all in one.

I’m interested to hear what other artists and Art Galleries think about instagram or what type of art marketing they use it for and what they think the benefits are. Hope to see you on the PIGSY instagram where we can have this conversation!

Art Life: What is influencing and inspiring my art work

Artistic Inspirations & Influences for a working artist

What influences artists? What inspires artists?

Everything! That’s the easy answer but see below for a detailed response where I outline all of the things that are currently influencing and inspiring my artistic practise while I am in Art Residency here in Madrid, Spain.

This blog post covers a few things that are inspiring and influencing me, right now, in my creative work. When I am working on a series of artworks covering a particular theme I carry out a bank of research before I start painting. However, also while working through my creative process I blare out music (sometimes) in the background……so I take influence from this, however it is only a minor influence with the big inspiration being the research I carried out and the viewpoint I developed from the reasearch.

Outside of my artwork, I am always reading, podcasting and visiting interesting sites or museums so again these also have a slight influence on me and my artistic work. See below for all that I am getting up to right now here in Madrid!

Artist Inspiration: What I’m Podcasting > “Death of an Artist”

Hosted by Author, Curator and Broadcaster Kathy Hessel, I’m currently listening to Season 2 of “Death of an Artist” on Spotify. This 6 part series takes an indepth look at the life of husband and wife (and Modern Art duo) Lee Krassner and Jackson Pollock.

Jackson Pollock controlled by Alcohol or controlled by others?

“Death of an Artist” podcast is a tale of hard living by artist Jackson Pollock who was a chronic alcoholic. Many people know about Jackson Pollock, his innovative artwork and style but the story of how he was directed by his wife Lee Krassner is less well known. The control or direction of Pollock by Krassner is whereby she creates a tightly controlled promotional plan for Pollock’s work along with Art Critic Clement Greenberg. The podcast delves in to all Krassner did for her husband and its a gripping story about love, desire, control, life and death. Of course my favourite Art Collector Peggy Guggenheim also gets a look in, with the story of how she supported and patronised living artists, featuring in the podcast too.

I’m fascinated by the lives of artists in the past, particularly the ones that had external influences such as being unstable, having mental health issues or alcohol and drug addictions. Artists with these conditions meant that they lived outside of the norm of general society and as such let no societal norms impact or put boundaries on themselves or their art work. And as such they created greatness - case in point being Jackson Pollock and his action painting through his pouring and dripping technique which was an innovation at the time. With that being said, I consider that most humans are capable of coercion and manipulation with many of us being controlled by others. And ultimately one has to consider whether this is the case with Pollock and Krassner.

Mid-Century Modern

Of huge interest to me is the mid-century modern design aesthetic in art and architecture. In my architectural work I was hugely influenced by the Father of MCM Frank Lloyd Wright. And it is for this reason that I have interest in Jackson Pollock and other artists of this time. Reading or hearing about artists living through this time conjures up images of this classic style within me and I adore the juxtaposition of Pollock drip art being displayed in the clean classic stripped back design of MCM spaces. I digress, to end the point about what I am podcasting and being inspired by, I will say that I highly recommend “Death of an Artist” podcast. Drop me a line in the comments below if you have listened to it and let me know what you think!

Artist Inspiration: What book I’m reading > “Surrender” by Bono

Currently I’m reading Bono’s “Surrender”. However, in this instance, when I say “reading” I actually mean listening to on an eAudioBook. As someone with dyslexia I flit between regular books and eAudioBooks - either way, to me, it’s all reading. I borrowed this book thought the Irish public library service, and kudos to them, it was available straightaway without having to go on the reserve list of which there was a long one when the book was initially published. Narrated by Bono it is really easy to listen to with his mild punctuation. It is a fantastic read that gives great insight into the man and the band U2 (ultimately though, only from Bono’s perspective!).

Of course to be a great songwriter one has to be a great storyteller so it should come of no surprise to hear that this memoir is a great collection of stories for the reader. Interestingly, Bono also creates a concept where each chapter is based on a song of U2 - fairly ingenious to always connect himself as the frontman of the band to the band and their songs as a whole. Is he alluding to a thought that without him there would be no U2, even though it was Larry Mullen who started the process of putting the group together?

Story telling

Bono is fairly famous and well known throughout the world as musicians go, but it is through this memoir we are invited to get to know the man and his background in his own words, Lots has been written about Bono and his Dublin upbringing but in reality it’s only through an individual’s own words do we get to know the true story…..or what they want to reveal of the true story. I think this is why it is so important for all of us to document our own true story and in someways I do this through my website, press interviews, social media posts in which I attempt to give a voice to my art.

My wife Enid has written a blog for well over 10 years and in the long term this will form a really important telling of her story. She encouraged her twin sister to start a blog about a year after she started her own, and Amy her twin sister has said that it was one of the very best things she has done in her life! So to that end, whether you are Bono or someone lesser known(!) keep on telling stories!

A shout out also to the Irish Public Library system who offer such a great service with a range of resources available from them in so many different mediums. The physical walls of libraries have been really broken down through their websites where they make such things as eBooks, eAudiobooks and digital courses available for all (for free!) with only a library card needed to avail of them.

Artist Inspiration: What music I’m listening to > Gurriers

From Bono to Gurriers, I am definitely taking in Irish influences right now!

Currently I’m listening to Gurriers who are fairly new on the Dublin music scene (they formed during the pandemic) and are a band that I was introduced to by my good pal Rodney Paz of House of Hibernia. I love their vibe, and youthful but intelligent confidence that exudes an aura that nothing can stop them. When I listen to Gurriers I am transported to energetic hot sweaty venues and can visualise them belting out their music. To me they are a post punk soundtrack to contemporary Dublin (even their name is pure Dublin) with song writing that could be described as a social commentary.

They are ascending rapidly and are currently on a European concert circuit. With upcoming performances in Germany, Italy, France, Netherlands & Belgium, go see Gurriers live, if you can…….and if you get talking to them, tell them PIGSY sent you!

Artist Inspiration: What I’m visiting > Reina Sofia Museo, Madrid

I’m on an Art Residency here in Madrid and as you might guess there is an abundance of museums, galleries and cultural centres to visit. However, there was something that was number one on my list to visit in Madrid. Can you guess what?!

Picasso’s Guernica!!

I’ve read and researched this Picasso painting for what seems like forever so it was what I visited asap when I arrived in Madrid. It did not disappoint.

And although it was crowded and pretty much elbow room only in the space that Guernica was exhibited, it was really great to see it in real life. In fact the busyness of the crowd all vying to see it (nearly as a collective) added to the vibe and palpable excitement of all of the viewers.

To see a painting created in 1937 having a draw like this in 2024 shows the significace and importance of art for humans no matter what is going on in the world. In fact given that the painting represents the horror and chaos of war it is probably just as significant now (or more so, given the current wars that are still ongoing and the impact they are having on people all over the world) as when it was painted.

Freedom of Expression and Free Speech

And while my artworks don’t tend to be overtly political I think it is important for all artists to be political and if an artist feels like they should paint an anti-war artwork, they should be free to do so. Freedom of expression is an important right and one we should fight for as artists, as should all of mankind.

Art Residency Madrid

As an aside, the fact that I am currently doing an Art Residency means that I can hop on the metro, here in Madrid, and easily get to see art masterpieces like Guernica underlines the importance of seeing the world. Doing Art Residencies gives artists the opportunity to travel beyond their doorstep and opens up the world to them in order to take influence from sights & sounds and develop their artistic work. I encourage all artists to take part in Art Residencies and seize every opportunity that comes their way!

Art Life: About Artist Residencies in Madrid & beyond

About Art Residencies

There are many different types of Art Residencies for Artists to avail of. Some of them offer a live / work set up with a studio alongside housing while others only offer a studio option leaving the artist to source their own accomodation. Some Art Residencies pride themselves on offering a remotely located studio where artists can find peace and solitude. Other Art Residencies are based in an urban setting with their offering being that you can network and mix with other artists and creatives in a busy community setting. Ultimately it is up to each individual artist to seek out an Artist Residency that suits them and their art work goals and style the best. Artists can also treat Art Residencies differently with some artists seeing them more as “retreats” where they take time out from their current working studio to go to another space and think about their work before returning to their studio with newly formed ideas and inspirations for their work. So it’s really a case of each artist deciding what works best for themselves.

I’ve outlined below some recent experience I’ve had with Art Residencies and also give some tips and information that you can use when choosing an Art Residency that is best for YOU!

PIGSY in Art Residency

For me, I have just recently finished up an Art Residency in Malaga and following that one I am now participating in a different one in Madrid. The Malaga Art Residency was with La Casa Amarilla (LCAMalaga) and they provided a studio space for me to work in for 6 weeks. At the end of the 6 weeks LCAMalaga I held a solo pop up art exhibition as part of the Art Residency. The solo exhibition was really useful for my art practise as it gave me something to be the focus of my Art Residency.

And now I am on an Art Residency in Madrid. It’s a completely different situation from Malaga. It’s a live / work residency where I am living in the studio that I am creating art in. However, the main focus for this Art Residency is not the creation of art but in fact the business of art including marketing as an artist. This is something that I think is very relevant to me and the point that I am at in my art career. So for me this is a very beneficial Art Residency to be completing.

For further information about this art residency offered by Very Private Art Gallery, you can check out their website here which outlines what their Art Residency offers.

You can also watch this video below of me creating art during my Madrid Art Residency with Very Private Art Gallert.

Where to find Art Residencies

If you are an artist (or a writer or other creative) information about Art Residencies can be found out through many different ways. Most Art Residencies host their information on their own websites and then there are other artist support websites that also provide information about residencies. If you are a member of a Visual Artist organisation, you will probably receive information from them about different opportunities including open calls and residencies.

See below for some of the websites (with clickable links) that provide info about worldwide Art Residency Opportunities

• Reviewed by Artists

• Res Artist

• Artenda

• Art Deadline

• Trans Artists

Art Residencies Costs & Funding

Costs and funding is something that you will need to consider when choosing your Art Residency. Some Art Residencies are free (particularly if the Art Residency just consists of a Studio Space) which is great!

However other Art Residencies may have costs associated with them. If the Art Residency consists of a free Studio you may then need to pay for accomodation close by to the studio. If the totality of of the residency is free (live/work space) you may still need to budget for travel costs, which of course can be sizable if you are travelling to a different country.

Also no matter what, you will need to eat during an Art Residency so you will have to of course budget for this, at the very least (although some art residencies do offer stipends which would cover things like art supplies and your dietary needs). Here’s a few ways you can considert in order to fund your Art Residency:

• Self Fund or alternatively choose a free Art Residency

• Apply for Grants - many countries have Arts Councils that offer grants

• Crowdfund or Patreon

• Link with an organisation that will provide funding because of the specific theme of the focus for your Art Residency

• Plan on selling art at the end of the residency if an exhibition is part of the proposal

• If you can think of other ways to fund an Art Residency, put a comment below!

Benefits of an Art Residency

Artists choose to participate in Art Residencies for many different reasons and there are many benefits to participation. I’ve listed some of the benefits below - but feel free to add more in the comments!

• Opportunity to work in new environments can open up fresh ideas and inspirations for artists to invigorate art work and art practises

• Art Residencies can bring about opportunities to network and meet new people in the Art World and beyond

• Art Residencies may have connections to Art Galleries which may lead to new opportunities

• Art Residencies can give a focus to an artist to produce work in a certain amount of time, particularly if they offer the goal of an exhibition at the end of the residency

• Artists can be challenged by Art Residencies if they are pushed out of their comfort zones and what they have been doing in their art career prior to taking part in an Art Residency

• Some Art Residencies focus on topics outside of art production and explore things like the business of art

• Experience new cultures through travel because most artists travel outside of their own country in order to attend Art Residencies

• Residencies are also offered to other creatives eg. Writers, Choreographers, etc.

As you can see there are many different types of Art Residencies for different artists, with many different benefits, and it is really a case of doing your research and finding the Art Residency that is the best for you at your stage of career.

So if your appetite has been whetted to participate in an Art Residency, it can be further whetted by checking out pictures below of me (PIGSY) on my current Art Residency here in Madrid. Or follow me on my PIGSY Art Instagram to see how I am getting on in this Art Residency and what I am doing after I complete it!

Artist Networking through Art Residencies

Networking for artists is critical for success.

Art Residencies can help with this becuse they can bring artists to a certain location where the artist can meet with art galleries, build artist network & communities, collaborate with others for creative success and show their art work to all further afield than where they are generally based. Complex networks of contacts, art galleries, art collectors and art creatives have great value for all artists, particularly those that do work in isolation. It also gives art collectors the opportunity to support living artists and show them recognition which for artists can be a measure of success. Artists’s aesthetic can be challenged and developed by their connections with other creatives and this in turn will further their artistic success.

Yet another reason for artists to see the value in art residencies!

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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

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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

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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

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

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

“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.

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“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

“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

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 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

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

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

To see the online Business Plus Artiicle, click here

Save the Date >> PIGSY Art Showcase

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”

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!

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!

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:

1. Choosing the right wall space based on the artwork’s size and orientation.

2. Measuring the height carefully to achieve the 155cm to 165cm center guideline.

3. 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.

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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 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.

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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!

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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

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” 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.

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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.