Swindog sculpture tours Old Town ahead of permanent display

The eye-catching sculpture, originally part of Swindon’s 2023 Big Dog Art Trail, has been transformed by renowned UK street artist Mr Penfold.

It was funded by four local businesses – Deacons, Los Gatos Tapas Bar, Domino’s Old Town, and Charles Harding Estate Agents – through the Old Town Business Association.

Each business is now hosting the Swindog in turn throughout November.

The sculpture was purchased as a blank canvas by the Association after the Big Dog Art Trail, which raised money for Julia’s House Children’s Hospice.

It remained unpainted until Mr Penfold was commissioned to complete it in his vibrant, contemporary style.

The final design will become a permanent feature in Old Town, as part of a proposed new public art plinth.

To celebrate the Swindog’s tour, a competition has been launched encouraging residents and visitors to take part.

To enter, members of the public are asked to spot the Swindog, take a selfie, upload it to Instagram, and tag @FriendsofOldTown for a chance to win £200 in vouchers.

Kris Talikowski, Chair of the Old Town Business Association, said:

“This project brings together creativity, collaboration, and community spirit – everything Old Town stands for.

“The Swindog is a symbol of what can happen when local businesses work together to make something lasting for the town.”