I used to live in Wiltshire, and a few years ago I was walking along the Kennet & Avon canal when I came across three sows in a muddy field by the canal path. They were so characterful – I decided to come back the following day to photograph them.

Mrs Pig is the result of that process. I made a series of sketches, and then I made a plastiline wax model – which I hope captures something of their character.

I first made her in acrylic, and this is the result. She is placed on a piece of Sapele wood. I enjoy the contrast of the materials - and the way that each plays with the light.