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 the Swiss artistic landscape—a painter who dared to transcend conventional boundaries, fusing the serene grandeur of natural vistas with the visceral energy characteristic of neo-expressionist painting. His formative years were steeped in Basel’s intellectual fervor (1946–1959), providing him with an invaluable foundation for his subsequent explorations into color palettes and sculptural form. Recognizing Monet's transformative impact on Impressionistic aesthetics—specifically his masterful manipulation of light and atmosphere—Buri embarked upon a creative odyssey driven by meticulous observation and fueled by an unwavering desire to communicate emotion through visual language. Paris, in 1959, became the crucible for Buri’s artistic maturation. Amidst the vibrant cultural currents of the era, he honed his craft, gravitating towards themes of landscape and animal imagery—a deliberate reflection of his profound connection with the environment and a resolute commitment to portraying its essence without compromise. He skillfully employed repetition as a compositional technique, believing it possessed the capacity to amplify the expressive potency of his canvases. This approach culminated in the creation of “Des Vaches: Mo, Ni, Que”—a monumental trilogy consisting of three fiberglass sculptures depicting cows adorned with delicate dandelion motifs. The genesis of this ambitious project stemmed from an initial commission by Monique Barbier, a celebrated Swiss art collector—a gesture imbued with symbolic significance as Buri honored Barbier’s first name. The subsequent acquisition of the sculptures by Lynden Sculpture Garden—following Barbier's passing in 1977—fulfilled her heartfelt aspiration to see her beloved bovine creations displayed prominently. This poignant episode underscored Buri’s artistic ethos: a dedication to honoring personal connections and translating them into enduring artworks. Recognizing the transformative potential of this new environment, he undertook a meticulous restoration process, revitalizing the sculptures with vibrant hues and reinforcing their symbolic resonance—a deliberate echo of Monet's pioneering vision. Observing the cows nestled beside Lynden’s tranquil pond, Buri revisited his initial inspiration, channeling Monet’s influence once more. This renewed engagement with nature resulted in an extraordinary reimagining of the sculptures, elevating their visual impact and cementing their place as emblems of artistic contemplation and remembrance. Buri's oeuvre transcends mere stylistic innovation; it embodies a profound dialogue between perception, emotion, and materiality—a testament to his unwavering pursuit of capturing both the sublime beauty of the natural world and the complexities of human experience. His legacy extends beyond Switzerland’s borders, securing his position as an influential voice within the broader context of contemporary art.

• National Grand Prize of Architecture
• Commander of Arts and Letters
• Officer of the Palmes Académiques
• Commander of the National Order of Merit