The CowParade at Old Sturbridge Village is returning once again and interested artists have until March 30 to apply to enter.
Photo credit: CowParade, Old Sturbridge Village.
A call for artists has been sent out for interested artists to apply to participate in the 2025 CowParade at Old Sturbridge Village.
Artists can apply for the opportunity to transform life-sized cow sculptures into unique artworks that support the largest outdoor living history museum in the northeast.
With over 200,000 visitors annually, Old Sturbridge Village provides a unique and inspiring backdrop for this vibrant public art event. CowParade welcomes artists of all levels to apply — from acclaimed professionals to enthusiastic amateurs. A panel of renowned judges from New England will select standout designs to become part of this celebrated tradition that has traveled the globe.
The event has been around since CowParade Chicago in 1999, where it was born and has since spanned across the world. Over 100 cities have hosted the event, and 7,500 diverse and multi-talented artists have created these pieces of art.
“As cities continue to embrace the idea of accessible art, the legacy of CowParade serves as an inspiring reminder that creativity knows no bounds. It shows us that when art is brought out of the gallery and into the streets, it has the power to unite, to inspire and to change lives,” said CowParade Vice President Ron Fox. “In an era where urban landscapes are constantly evolving, CowParade remains a vibrant celebration of creativity, community and the enduring human spirit.”
Over 250 million people on six continents and in 32 countries have seen CowParade work of the past, and 7,000 cows have been painted and transformed by over 15,000 artists.
Over 20 artists will be selected to participate and once completed, the cows will be publicly displayed at New England’s largest living history museum from June to September. CowParade at Old Sturbridge Village is looking for artists to be inspired by their own cultural contexts and their artistic vision.
Interested applicants may submit up to five designs to be considered in any of the following categories:
- Life in New England: Designs that celebrate the essence of life in New England. It is encouraged that submissions are inspired by Old Sturbridge Village, drawing from its rich textiles and wallpaper, historic homes, charming gardens, traditional trades and extensive museum collection.
- America 250: Designs that honor the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, reflecting the spirit of the nation’s founding. Artwork should capture the resilience and vision of the Founding Fathers, celebrating the ideals that shaped America.
- Artist’s Choice: Designs with limitless creative freedom. Artists are invited to express their unique vision and style, exploring any theme or concept that resonates with them.
Artists, individuals or groups interested in applying to paint, sculpt or decorate a cow have until March 30 to complete the online application with proposed designs, a brief statement about the designs and a signed Copyright Assignment. This is an opportunity for artists of all levels — beginner, amateur, professional — to have their creative work on display for thousands to see.
More information on this year’s CowParade or to apply as an artist, visit osv.org/cowparade.
“CowParade at Old Sturbridge Village presents an exciting opportunity for artists to showcase their creativity in a globally recognized event that has captivated audiences in remarkable cities around the world,” said Old Sturbridge Village Chief Marketing Officer Chris Tieri. “This event invites artists of all levels to participate in a celebration of culture and creativity as well as the opportunity to showcase their work to thousands of local, regional and international visitors expected at the village this summer.”
Assistant Director of Marketing and Communications Emily Klamm told Reminder Publishing the selection process is designed to ensure a diverse and compelling range of designs. Once an application is submitted, the event team will review it for compliance with the event guidelines. Approved designs will then be presented to a jury for final selection. If chosen, the artist will receive a full-sized cow sculpture to bring their vision to life.
“After the March 30, 2025 deadline, we’ll review all submitted designs and notify selected artists by April 2, 2025. The selected artists can then collect their cow sculpture between April 2 and April 7, 2025, with the final finished artwork due back to use between May 22 and June 10, 2025,” explained Klamm.
The more than 20 life-sized, artists-painted cow sculptures will be on display across Old Sturbridge Village’s historic landscape from late June through late September.
“The exhibit will offer visitors a chance to experience the intersection of history, art and community. It’s an exciting addition to the immersive 19th-century environment at Old Sturbridge Village, giving guests something new and unexpected to discover during their visit,” said Klamm. “Additionally, our partner museum, Coggeshall Farm Museum in Bristol, Rhode Island, will also have a painted cow on display, extending the reach and impact of CowParade at Old Sturbridge Village.”
Klamm added the Old Sturbridge Village CowParade encourages artists to submit their proposals as early as possible to allow time for thorough review and to ensure a diverse portfolio of designs.
“This event is not only a great platform for artists but also an incredible opportunity to contribute to a one-of-a-kind public art exhibition that will engage and inspire Old Sturbridge Village visitors all summer long,” Klamm said.
