For the past twelve years, I’ve been very vocal about the fact that I only paint cows. Many have tried to lure me to the dark side of ‘other animals’ but I was adamant that I was Lauren’s COWS. The endlessly endearing, curious nature and gentle spirit of cattle is everything to me. But every so often, an animal comes along that warms my heart and the rules go out of the window. Penny the piglet is one of those rare exceptions.
‘You can’t help but love piglets’ Nathan Atkinson
This painting all started with a snap taken by my friend Nathan, a farmer and a natural with a camera. He had a knack for capturing the soul of The Lake District, where he farmed with his family. I first learned of Nathan’s photos when I painted his own photo of super inquisitive Holly, the British Longhorn. The photo was so full of life, I had to see more. One particular image of a curious little piglet, nose-first into the camera, touched my heart and instantly made me smile. It still does.
Nathan sadly lost his life in a farming accident in 2019. The idea of this little piglet so full of life affirming cheer being hidden in the depths of Instagram, not to be seen, just broke my heart. I wanted people to see it, to feel the joy of it, and simply smile.
So I did my first ever pig painting and Penny joined the herd. She may not be a cow, there’s not even a hint of a cow present, unless you count her black spots. But she’s a breath of fresh and air, a little tribute to a friend and a nod to all the animals we’re lucky enough to know.
Penny the piglet
I’m so pleased with how my first pig painting turned out. It was a hard task painting a pig for the first time, let me tell you. From the ears to the texture of their skin, to the colour palette, everything is so different to painting a cow. My hand is so honed into painting cattle, whether they are hairy highland cattle or doughy eyed dairy cows my paint brushes know their form so well. Painting a pig, was well, a whole other species! The trickiest part? Her nose. But I’m so pleased with the result and her certainly have no regrets painting a pig.
A friendly face for your wall
If you are looking for a friendly face to make you smile then Penny the piglet is a perfect choice. That lush green background brings freshness and greenery to your space. Paired with the cheeky expression of our curious piglet it brings life and fun to your home. I especially love this picture for a nursery or child’s room.
Penny is now available as an Open Edition Print and Greetings Card so you can pass on the smile to a friend.