Three piglets at the center of a controversial art exhibition in Denmark have been stolen in an act of protest, sparking debates on animal rights and artistic expression. The exhibition, created by Chilean-born artist Marco Evaristti, involved starving the piglets to death as a critique of industrial meat production.
Evaristti, known for his provocative installations, said the piglets—named Lucia, Simon, and Benjamin—were taken by animal rights activists with the help of his close friend, Caspar Steffensen.
“I called up police on Saturday to report the piglets stolen, and I had to shut down the entire exhibition because of that—so I was very disappointed when Caspar told me on Tuesday that he was involved in the theft,” Evaristti said, adding that he had received hate mail in response to his installation.
“But then I thought about it for a few hours and realized that at least this way the piglets would have a happy life,” he added.
Copenhagen police confirmed they had received a report of the theft, but no further action has been announced according to APnews.
Evaristti’s exhibition, titled “And Now You Care,” opened last week in Copenhagen and featured a makeshift cage constructed from shopping carts, containing the three piglets. The artist aimed to highlight the suffering caused by modern pig farming in Denmark, one of the world’s largest pork exporters.
Animal Protection Denmark, a welfare group, has pointed out systemic issues in the industry, noting that sows are bred to produce around 20 piglets at a time, despite only having 14 teats. This results in competition for breastmilk and the starvation of many piglets.
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While the exhibition sought to raise awareness, animal rights groups criticized Evaristti’s methods. “We welcome initiatives to spotlight animal welfare but cannot condone the abuse of animals,” said a spokesperson for one group.
Caspar Steffensen, who participated in the piglets’ rescue, said his decision was influenced by his 10-year-old daughter’s plea. “She begged me to make sure the piggies wouldn’t die,” Steffensen explained.
On Saturday, activists from the group De Glemte Danske gained access to the gallery and removed the animals. The group publicly claimed responsibility in an online statement Tuesday, revealing the covert operation.
Steffensen admitted he hadn’t initially planned to inform Evaristti but felt compelled to come clean once the rescue became public.
Despite the controversy, Evaristti plans to reimagine his exhibition. He has proposed showcasing dead piglets sourced from meat processing plants to continue his critique of industrial farming. Additionally, he suggested acquiring three live piglets—not to starve but to auction off, ensuring their survival with the highest bidder promising a happy life.
“I got a lot of hate messages from around the world—I think people don’t get that my art is about animal rights,” Evaristti said.
The incident has reignited debates over the limits of art and ethics, with public opinion divided on whether the installation was a powerful statement or an unacceptable act of cruelty.
