The idea for was first conceived in 1998, in Zürich by Walter Knapp. Swiss-born sculptor Pascal Knapp created the now iconic standing, grazing and lying cow shapes. In 1999, Jerry Elbaum, the founder of CowParade, staged the first event in Chicago. The following year, the largest CowParade event was held in New York, where 450 cows were seen by more than 45 million people. To date, the event has taken place in over 75 cities around the globe.
For the CowParade events, locals artists, both establised and otherwise, create designs on fibreglass cows, which are then installed in city centres and central points of interest such as parks and train stations. After they have been exhibited, the cows first hit the market in an auction with proceeds going to benefit various charities.
All pieces featured are currently up for auction at Catawiki. Check out more here.