Baanksy, the world-famous painting sheep that disappeared from Farm Sanctuary SA in Franschhoek on 1 February is still missing, confirmed Joanne Lefson, director of Farm Sanctuary SA.
Baanksy, who has gained international recognition for his unique artistic abilities, was scheduled to meet a UK-based family for a commissioned painting the following day, on 2 February.
When he failed to appear at his art studio at Farm Sanctuary SA staff launched a search.
Franschhoek police previously confirmed to Paarl Post that the matter was being investigated by its stock theft unit, based in Kraaifontein in Cape Town.
According to Lefson, the Farm Sanctuary SA’s R1.2 million reward and extensive searches conducted by private investigators have not produced any promising leads. She said she continues to hope that Baanksy may still be found and finds it hard to believe or accept that he could be dead.
The reward for his safe return included a condition that 50% of the amount be donated to a charity of the recipient’s choice with the remaining 50% going to the recipient.
Lefson explained that the private investigators followed several leads, including tracking “a few people in a white bakkie” they suspected, as well as followed up on information about somebody looking for a container “to put a sheep in”.
However, none of these leads delivered. She said she also received no tip-offs after the reward was put out, but was rather met with two people trying to scam her.
She said that at the time of Baanksy’s disappearance, the farm’s CCTV system was also not operational as it was broken and not yet repaired.
According to Lefson, Baanksy was rescued in 2022 from the roadside in the Karoo, a region known for intensive sheep farming.
“He found a home at Farm Sanctuary SA, which previously housed Pigcasso, a globally-renowned painting pig. Through observing Pigcasso’s artistic process Baanksy developed his own painting skills.”
His works have since attracted buyers worldwide, raising awareness and funds for the sanctuary’s mission to advocate for farm animal welfare.
Lefson emphasised Baanksy’s significance beyond his artistic talent. “Baanksy’s life has intrinsic value beyond the brush. His art is an inspiration to the world, and the underlying message to raise awareness of the plight of farm animals is priceless.
She explained that although Baanksy is still missing, Farm Sanctuary SA is still fully operational and has no plans of slowing down.
Anyone with information about Baanksy’s whereabouts can contact Farm Sanctuary SA at director@farmsanctuarysa.org.
