Viral painting pig ‘Pigcasso’ dies at 8 years old

Legendary painting pig, Pigcasso, has died at just eight years old following a battle with chronic Rheumatoid arthritis.

With billions of monthly users across all social media platforms, there has been a wide variety of people and animals growing a sizeable following.

Grumpy Cat was the face of memes for years until its death in 2019, and TikTok has been the home of many other viral animals since then.

Pigcasso amassed over 100k followers on Instagram, but its owner Joanne Lefson revealed that the legendary painter died on March 7, 2024.

Legendary painter Pigcasso dead at eight years old

Announced on the swine’s Instagram page and website, Joanne Lefson shared that Pigcasso’s chronic Rheumatoid arthritis was the source of the animal’s death.

Lefson paid tribute to the animal across social media, writing a lovely note to the viral abstract painter.

“DEAR PIGCASSO. From slaughterhouse to the world’s most accomplished animal artist in history, your life was simply extraordinary. Your life made a difference in the world. You not only challenged the art fraternity Pigcasso, you also inspired millions of people to acknowledge farmed animals as the sentient individuals that they are – each one worthy of our empathy and compassion,” she said.

“I remain so very fortunate to have collaborated with the intelligent, gentle, creative, and extraordinary individual that you were. Your legacy to create a kinder and more sustainable world for all lives on Pigcasso – as does our deepest respect, appreciation, and gratitude from those of us fortunate enough to have been a part of your remarkable journey.”

After being saved from the slaughterhouse in 2016, Pigcasso and Lefson went on to create absolutely gorgeous abstract paintings that were shared across social media. On Instagram alone, the Pigcasso page amassed over 111k followers.

With the announcement of the pig’s death, many took to the comments to share their respects.

“What a loss to the world. He is a reminder of all that animals have the potential to be, of all that humans miss and he is every reason for humans to do so much better by animals,” one user replied.

Another commented: “Oh my gosh, I can’t believe this… I am SO very sorry. You are a true hero & ambassador, PigCasso, an inspiration & one of the most special souls.”

“I’m so sorry to hear this. I was not lucky enough to have met her, but I do get to admire her lovely work on my walls everyday,” a third said.