Artist from Newton Constructs Life-Size Cow Sculpture to Benefit Cancer Research Fund

Tova Speter, an artist residing in Newton, has beautifully adorned a life-size cow sculpture named 'Heifervescence' for CowParade New England. Accompanied by 12-year-old Yael Schulman and her miniature cow 'Yatziry,' Tova Speter's remarkable creation stands proudly. (Photo courtesy of Debbie Gravina Photography and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.)

In Newton, Massachusetts, a local resident and talented artist has skillfully painted a life-size cow sculpture for a noteworthy public art installation and fundraising event commemorating the 75th anniversary of the Jimmy Fund at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

Tova Speter's cow sculpture, named 'Heifervescence,' will be exhibited at High Street Place in Boston, inviting visitors to admire its beauty from June 24 to September 4.

As an integral component of CowParade New England, a prominent public art installation showcasing 75 distinct cows adorned by talented local artists across the region, these remarkable bovine artworks will be strategically positioned at iconic sites throughout Greater Boston. This initiative serves as a tribute to the 75-year journey of advancement and profound influence accomplished by the Jimmy Fund community.

Speter, a devoted community artist, art therapist, and educator, channels her artistic expression guided by the core belief that art creation inherently carries therapeutic and developmental qualities. Her cow sculpture, named Heifervescence, showcases a captivating blend of blue hues and resin-cast white bubbles. In an inspiring educational arts endeavor associated with CowParade New England, Speter will collaboratively design a miniature cow with her student, Yael Schulman, further emphasizing the transformative power of art.

The significance of the cause holds profound personal meaning for 11-year-old Schulman, who courageously battled osteosarcoma after being diagnosed in October 2020, undergoing a nine-month treatment journey at the esteemed Jimmy Fund Clinic. Throughout her treatment, Schulman discovered the art technique of syringe painting, which she skillfully employed to create her unique "mini moo" contribution to the CowParade initiative.

Expressing her heartfelt sentiment, Schulman conveyed, "The Jimmy Fund holds a special place in my heart because they cured me. The doctors, nurses, and child life specialists demonstrated immense care and provided exceptional support during my challenging times of illness." In a news release, she shared her enthusiasm as an ardent lover of art, eagerly anticipating her participation in the CowParade. Schulman expressed a deep connection to the cow sculpture, recognizing its significance as it was created by a fellow cancer survivor.

In a news release, Suzanne Fountain, Vice President of the Jimmy Fund, expressed immense excitement, stating, "We are delighted to witness the involvement of numerous skilled and diverse local artists from Greater Boston and across New England in CowParade New England." Fountain recognized CowParade as a magnificent avenue for unifying the community, allowing them to commemorate the 75-year legacy of the Jimmy Fund while collectively striving towards a future where cancer is conquered. She emphasized the significance of this artistic initiative in continuing to generate funds, bringing us closer to a world free from the clutches of cancer.

To facilitate community engagement, a comprehensive pasture map has been made available, enabling residents to easily locate each of the exhibited cows. In August, a special auction will be held for a select number of cows, with the proceeds dedicated to the Jimmy Fund. This remarkable initiative plays a pivotal role in supporting cancer research and providing essential care at the esteemed Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.