Matthew Teitelbaum and Peter White, Joe Fafard: Cows and Other Luminaries 1977-1987, Mendel Art Gallery, Saskatoon and Dunlop Art Gallery, Regina, 1987, pages 15-16
A mainstay in the artist’s practice, this bronze co-winning cow highlights the importance of cattle for Fafard from his childhood experiences. The reliance on cows, not just to farm life, but to society at large, is a theme constantly explored by the artist. Historically, the animals were fixtures in the practical construction of communities, they now help provide economic and social programs for communities and of course help provide sustenance for large groups of people. For the artist, cows symbolize the larger relationship between human and animal and it is out of admiration and deep respect that the artist makes the conscious choice to name each of his bronze sculptures, giving a unique identity and personality to the animals.
