(1935 - )

Samuel Buri: Bridging Nature and Expressionism Through Fiberglass Cows

Samuel Buri, born in Zurich, Switzerland, in 1935, is a Swiss artist whose distinctive artistic vision fuses the serene beauty of the natural world with the bold dynamism of neo-expressionist painting. His formative years were spent studying in Basel from 1946 to 1959, establishing a foundation for his later explorations into color and form. Recognizing the profound impact of Impressionism on his aesthetic sensibilities—particularly Monet’s masterful use of light and atmosphere—Buri embarked on a creative journey marked by meticulous observation and an unwavering commitment to conveying emotion through visual language. His artistic trajectory took him to Paris in 1959, where he honed his craft amidst the vibrant intellectual milieu of the era. During this period, Buri’s work began to coalesce around themes of landscape and animal imagery, reflecting a deep connection with the environment and an inclination towards capturing its essence with uncompromising honesty. He embraced repetition as a compositional device, believing it could amplify the expressive power of his paintings. Notably, he created a series of painted fiberglass cows inspired by Monet's approach to nature, demonstrating his dedication to translating natural beauty into sculptural form. The centerpiece of Buri’s oeuvre is arguably his “Des Vaches: Mo, Ni, Que” trilogy – three fiberglass sculptures depicting cows adorned with dandelion motifs. Commissioned originally by Monique Barbier, a prominent Swiss art collector, the project began as a playful homage to Barbier's first name. Recognizing the significance of this gesture, Buri named the cows Mo, Ni, and Que—a deliberate nod to Barbier’s identity and an embodiment of his artistic spirit. Following Barbier’s passing in 1977, Jane Pettit, her daughter, purchased the sculptures for Lynden Sculpture Garden, fulfilling her mother's heartfelt desire. Subsequently, Buri undertook a painstaking restoration process, revitalizing the cows with brighter hues and reinforcing their symbolic connection to Barbier’s legacy. The sculpture garden itself became an integral part of Buri’s artistic narrative. Observing the cows in this new setting—a tranquil pond surrounded by lush greenery—he revisited his initial inspiration, channeling Monet's influence once more. This renewed engagement with nature resulted in a transformative reimagining of the sculptures, elevating their visual impact and underscoring their enduring relevance as emblems of artistic contemplation and remembrance. Samuel Buri’s contribution to contemporary art extends beyond mere aesthetic achievement; it represents a profound dialogue between observation, emotion, and materiality—a testament to his unwavering dedication to capturing the spirit of both landscape and human experience.