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Acclaimed West Australian artist Len Zuks, who works as a fitter in The University of Western Australia's Facilities Management maintenance workshop, has created a new sculpture - a cow named Professor Bovinicus for the ‘ CowParade ' in the State's south-west.

His Professor Bovinicus is on display in Augusta's main street, part of a herd of more than 70 cows in the parade in the Margaret River region from this month to June.

"I had a very hands-on upbringing around cows, helping my mother make cream, butter and cheese," Mr Zuks said.  "Bovinicus was inspired by a deep respect for learning and a cherished relationship with UWA.  She represents what continually needs to be done - learning.  The accumulation of knowledge enlightens us, and keeps the Dark Ages at bay."

Mr Zuks has won several awards and created a number of fabricated steel sculptures for public art commissions including works at Ascot Waters, Melville, Boddington and Karratha Airport.  He was awarded a Chancellor's Medal in 2009 for his outstanding contribution to the University over many years.  He also won the people's choice award at last year's Sculpture by the Sea for his group of emus.

For the parade, 77 artists transformed life-sized fibreglass cows into ‘moo'ving' pieces of art.  The cows graze on public display at iconic attractions and local businesses throughout the region.

Len Zuks also entered a portrait of philanthropist Dr Jack Bendat in this year's Archibald Prize.

Media references

Len Zuks (+61 4) 27 866 835
Janine MacDonald (UWA Public Affairs)  (+61 8)  6488 5563  /  (+61 4) 32 637 716