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This image shows three of my friends posing with Angus. He was taken outside of the art school and placed near the grass to give him a more realistic setting. He was created to be a hyperrealistic “sculpture” or replica of a real highland cow, and has everything from the brownish orange fur to the long horns.

“Angus” The Therapy Cow (2022)

Cayla Meerschaert

Made from OSB wood, glue, butcher paper, newspaper, various tapes, air dry clay, apoxie sculpt, polyester batting, faux fur, and paint. The horns are real and were left in my parent’s home from the previous owners.

Undergraduate
I chose to create Angus the Therapy cow because I enjoy making art that evokes both humor and joy, and I like working on a very large scale. I chose to make this piece initially because I wanted to create something that was just funny to look at and experience. I did not want there to be any hidden meaning. There is no hidden meaning behind Angus. He is a cow. Simple. However, I have come to the realization that through my making process, I am healing myself from the traumas of my past. Art making as a form of therapy is incredibly important on its own, but the joy of seeing others positively interact with my work through love and laughter is just as therapeutic and healing. The true deep meaning of this piece lies within the making process and the reaction from the audience. So, I invite you to come forth and pet and take pictures with Angus, and hopefully his presence can bring a little more humor and happiness to your day.