Dive Into the Whimsical World of Pigcasso's Playful Exhibition

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On a cold winter morning, I put my toddler in a Didi and headed out to Haidian. Not to sound stereotypical, but once you move out of Haidian, it’s hard to find the will to make the long trip back for fun. But, this was a special occasion. One of the coolest exhibitions has come to Beijing and they’re exhibiting at Wukesong in Haidian.

On Didi, it said we were in for a 40-minute drive, but you know how unpredictable Beijing traffic is. We were in the car for a good hour or so. Was it still worth it? Yup!

Kind of like how in Ratatouille Chef Gusteau says, “Anyone can cook,” in the realm where art meets the unexpected, Pigcasso emerges as a sensational and utterly unconventional painting prodigy and living example of “anyone can paint”.

But who is Pigcasso? She’s a pig with the most humble of beginnings.

Pigcasso’s incredible journey begins with a twist of fate and a compassionate rescue. Originally destined for the dinner table, Pigcasso’s life took an unexpected turn when she was rescued from a South African slaughterhouse by Joanne Lefson, an animal activist and founder of Farm Sanctuary SA. Recognizing Pigcasso’s potential for a life beyond the farm, Lefson provided a second chance for this remarkable pig.

The decision to spare Pigcasso from the fate that awaited her was not only an act of kindness but also the catalyst for an artistic odyssey. Under the care of Lefson and the sanctuary, she found a new lease on life, free from the confines of a factory farm. This newfound freedom ignited a spark in the pig, revealing an artistic flair that would soon captivate the world.

Rescued from the brink of a very different destiny, Pigcasso’s story is a testament to the transformative power of compassion and the unexpected talents that can flourish when animals are allowed to live in an environment that nurtures their well-being.

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Pigcasso holds the world record for the most expensive painting by an animal that was sold in 2021 for a whopping GBP 200,000 (almost RMB 1.8 million)! Each of her works is unique and inspired by what mood she’s in. She even “signs” her paintings with her signature snout print.

The latest Pigcasso exhibition called Thank You Color showcases works by the talented pig and also has plenty of interactive elements for kids to enjoy. For one, there's this giant splash of paint that my little girl and her friend pretended to be trapped in for a good 30 minutes all while giggling and sliding up and down. Don’t worry, it’s a sturdy installation and meant to be leaned at, sat on, hugged, etc.

Then there’s a section where you, too, can leave a piece of your artistic work at the installation. Crayons and felt farm setting fills a hall and you’re encouraged to color and draw on anything you see.

And to make it extra fun for the kids, there’s even a little teeny tiny pot-belly pig there at the exit, waiting to snort you goodbye.

Pro tip:

Try to avoid the weekend, you’ll have a better time playing around and seeing all the exhibitions without a ton of people in the background trying to take pics.

Pigcasso’s kid-friendly exhibition is a celebration of creativity, imagination, and the joy of art. From the lively paintings to interactive stations and the chance to meet the star of the show, Pigcasso’s world invites young art enthusiasts on a magical journey. It’s more than just an exhibition; it’s an opportunity for kids to explore the wonders of art in a playful and accessible setting. Don’t miss out on this enchanting experience that promises to leave a colorful imprint on the hearts and minds of young visitors!

The whole thing takes about 30 minutes to experience. Was the hour-long trip worth it? Yup! Because also located in Wukesong are plenty of amazing restaurants and shops to explore.

Dates: Until Feb 25
Ticket prices:
RMB 59 per adult
RMB 70 for 1 adult + 1 child
Free for kids under 1.2 meters

Find it:

Beijing Times Art Museum 北京时代美术馆
69 Fuxing Lu, Haidian District (northeast corner of Huaxi Live)
海淀区复兴路69号（华熙LIVE.HI-UP东北角）
Tel: [phone]

Images: Mina Yan

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