Old Town is about to get a splash of colour as internationally recognised street artist Penfold prepares to paint the final Swindog sculpture for permanent display.
The blank fibreglass balloon dog, purchased by the Old Town Business Association after Swindon’s 2023 Big Dog Art Trail, will be given a striking new design by Penfold, known for his vibrant, abstract murals across the UK and abroad.
The Swindog was funded by four local sponsors — Domino’s, Los Gatos, Charles Harding and Deacons — who snapped up the blank sculpture after the painted pieces from the 2023 trail sold for charity in aid of Julia’s House Children’s Hospice. Several artists submitted designs, and Penfold’s was chosen to bring the sculpture to life.
Once completed, the Swindog will tour venues across Old Town before moving to a permanent outdoor site. Plans are being explored for a plinth, inspired by London’s Fourth Plinth in Trafalgar Square, to showcase contemporary public art on a rotating basis.
Kris Talikowski, Chair of the Old Town Business Association, said:
“Old Town would really benefit from contemporary public art, as it plays a vital role in building cultural appreciation into a community. We hope a Penfold-designed Swindog will be well received and grow into a landmark for Old Town.”
Mark Pepperall, founder of OINK Gallery, added:
“This collaboration links Old Town to the wider street art movement. Penfold’s work is instantly recognisable, and seeing it translated onto a Swindog is something really special.”
Penfold’s painting will feature as part of OINK Gallery’s Inner City Dreamers exhibition, opening 6 September, which also showcases leading UK street artists Mul, Prefab77, KMG and Sweet Toof. The Swindog will be unveiled during the exhibition’s opening weekend before taking up its permanent place in Old Town.
For more information, visit OINK Gallery.
