How to Decorate a Cow Sculpture

Cow sculptures are common in large cities.

Cow sculptures are common as both small pieces of art and large pieces of public art. Cities, such as Chicago and Milan, have asked artists to decorate cow sculptures. Regardless of size, the cow becomes the basic framework and the artistic decorations make the sculpture a unique piece of art. Selecting a theme and message for the piece of art is the most helpful in deciding how to decorate the cow. Once you know what you want to express, have fun creating a one-of-a-kind piece.

Things You'll Need

• Paint
• Decorative pieces

Instructions

1. Decide what you want the cow sculpture to mean as a piece of art. The message can be as simple as one of frivolity and fun or as serious as man's lost connection to our agricultural roots. This theme will help you decide on the kind of materials to use on the cow.

2. Paint the cow. The colors and textures you make with the paint will be the basis for the visual piece. While this could be part of the primary artistic expression, the paint is likely to be nothing more than the base from which you elaborate on your artistic message.

3. Add decorative pieces to the cow sculpture. Use the horns, legs and neck. For example, you could dress the cow in a business suit. Or you could add jewelry to its ears and ankles. These decorative items will form the basis for your artistic message.

4. Refine the piece with details. Add small touches to make the piece more interesting to those who take a closer look. For example, add cuff-links and a tie clip if the cow is in a suit.

References

• Cow Parade: Our Story
• Cow Parade Prague: Behind the Cows
• Chicago Traveler: Chicago's Cows on Parade Art Exhibit