Des Vaches: Mo, Ni, Que

Samuel Buri: Bridging Nature and Expressionism Through Fiberglass Cows

Born in Zurich, Switzerland, in 1935, Samuel Buri stands as a singular figure within Swiss artistic history—a sculptor whose vision seamlessly blends the tranquility of natural landscapes with the fervent energy characteristic of neo-expressionist painting. His formative years were marked by rigorous academic pursuits at Basel University (1946–1959), providing him with an indispensable foundation for his subsequent explorations into color palettes and sculptural form. Recognizing the indelible imprint Impressionism left upon his artistic sensibilities—particularly Monet’s masterful manipulation of light and atmosphere—Buri embarked on a creative odyssey fueled by meticulous observation and driven by a resolute determination to convey emotion through visual language. This early influence propelled him toward Paris in 1959, where he immersed himself within the stimulating intellectual currents of the era. During this pivotal period, Buri’s artistic endeavors centered around themes of pastoral scenes and animal imagery—expressions of his profound connection with the environment and a steadfast commitment to portraying its essence without compromise. He skillfully employed repetition as a compositional technique, believing it could amplify the expressive potency of his canvases. Notably, he conceived of a series of painted fiberglass cows—a deliberate homage to Monet’s approach to capturing the ephemeral beauty of nature—demonstrating an unwavering dedication to translating natural splendor into tangible sculptural form. The cornerstone of Buri's artistic legacy resides in the “Des Vaches: Mo, Ni, Que” trilogy – three monumental fiberglass sculptures depicting cows embellished with dandelion motifs. Initially commissioned by Monique Barbier, a celebrated Swiss art connoisseur, this ambitious project commenced as a playful tribute to Barbier’s maiden name—a gesture imbued with symbolic significance. Recognizing the profound importance of this gesture, Buri christened the cows Mo, Ni, and Que—a deliberate allusion to Barbier's identity and an embodiment of his artistic ethos. Following Barbier’s untimely passing in 1977, Jane Pettit, her daughter, procured the sculptures for Lynden Sculpture Garden—fulfilling her mother’s heartfelt aspiration to honor Buri’s work publicly. Subsequently, he undertook a painstaking restoration process, revitalizing the cows with vibrant hues and reinforcing their enduring connection to Barbier's memory. The sculpture garden itself served as an integral component of Buri’s artistic narrative—a space where he revisited his initial inspiration, channeling Monet’s influence once more. Observing the cows nestled amongst lush greenery—a tranquil pond reflecting sunlight—he reimagined them with renewed vigor, elevating their visual impact and underscoring their enduring resonance as emblems of artistic contemplation and remembrance. This transformative engagement with nature underscored Buri's conviction that art should not merely depict beauty but also provoke reflection upon its essence. Beyond his sculptural achievements, Samuel Buri’s artistic trajectory encompassed a broader spectrum of creative endeavors—from architectural projects to experimental paintings—reflecting an inquisitive spirit and a willingness to push the boundaries of artistic expression. His work consistently interrogated themes of solitude, contemplation, and the relationship between humanity and the natural world—a testament to his unwavering commitment to conveying profound emotional truths through visual mediums. He was awarded Commander of Arts and Letters in 1987 for his contribution to Swiss culture and recognized as Officer of the National Order of Merit in 1993 for his service to the nation. Furthermore, he received the Legion of Honor from France in 2006—a prestigious honor bestowed upon him by the French government—acknowledging his distinguished artistic accomplishments and cementing his place among Switzerland’s most revered artists. Today, Samuel Buri continues to reside and work in Basel, Switzerland, where he remains actively engaged in artistic pursuits—a beacon of creativity and innovation who embodies the enduring spirit of Swiss art history.