Pinto Pig

Beloved by millions of people who have watched his antics in Children’s Zoo, there are few higher profile pigs in America. But, despite his very public persona, most fans probably do not know that Pinto has an artistic side too. Aside from keepers in the Children’s Zoo, few have seen the work he is most passionate about---Pinto is an accomplished painter (for a pig anyway) and he loves to create works of art!

It is probably no surprise that Pinto has had no formal art training. But, pigs are incredibly smart, so keepers employ a variety of behavioral enrichment toys and activities to keep them active and engaged. And this pig has taken to painting! So, in celebration of National Pig Day on Wednesday, March 1, Pinto Yucatan Miniature Pig has created his first painting for public sale. To create his one-of-a-kind masterpiece, Pinto employed a selection of primary colors (non-toxic paint), and then proceeded to mix them in innovative ways. He not only used his hooves and snout, but took advantage of found objects and food items.

Pinto’s artwork is being offered to the public on eBay through Thursday, March 2, at 9:00 p.m. CST. Pinto’s painting looks quite modern; somewhat reminiscent of the work of Jackson Pollock (if he had hooves and a snout). The contemporary unframed piece is 16 inches by 20 inches. Any art lover would SQUEAL with delight to have this painting adorning his or her wall! Along with the original artwork, the winning bidder will receive a color photo of the artist at work on his painting and a letter of authenticity from Brookfield Zoo. Proceeds from this auction will go to support Brookfield Zoo’s animals and conservation programs.

Those planning to attend Brookfield Zoo’s National Pig Day celebration on Wednesday, March 1 can view the painting in person. It will be displayed in the Children’s Zoo’s Big Barn that day only until 4:30 p.m. During the celebration, guests can see just how talented this artistic porcine is when he takes center stage at 10:30 a.m. to show off some of his more natural behaviors—including a bit of basketball! After his impressive pork-formance, join in cheering Pinto on with a rendition of “Happy Pig Day” as his keepers present him with a bouquet of carrots. Other National Pig Day activities include a parade and pig-related games, mud play, and craft activities in the Hamill Family Play Zoo.

National Pig Day was first conceived in 1972 by two sisters, Ellen Stanley of Lubbock, Texas, and Mary Lynne Rave of Beaufort, North Carolina. The day has grown to become a celebration of and appreciation for the pig’s best qualities and attributes.

On Wednesday, March 1, admission to Children’s Zoo and Hamill Family Play Zoo is free. General admission to Brookfield Zoo is $10 for adults and $6 for children 3-11 and seniors 65 and over. Children 2 and under are free. Parking is $8. Brookfield Zoo’s National Pig Day celebration is sponsored in part by American Airlines.

Furry Films
Check back for video of the master at work!