Butter Sculpture at New York State Fair Celebrates Dairy Nutrition and Growth
The New York State Fair recently unveiled the 57th Annual Butter Sculpture, depicting a theme that emphasizes dairy's essential role in health and nutrition titled "Dairy For Good: Nourish. Grow. Thrive." Sponsored by Wegmans, this year's sculpture showcases not only the artistry of butter but also pays homage to the 125th anniversary of L. Frank Baum's classic tale, "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz."
This stunning display features a whimsical representation of a hot air balloon adorned with the phrase "Dairy Defies Gravity", symbolizing the uplifting benefits of dairy at various life stages. Beneath this enchanting balloon, visitors can see intricate butter carvings illustrating key moments in a person's life, beginning with a pregnant woman holding a glass of milk, to a six-month-old baby enjoying yogurt, and finally, a toddler relishing a slice of cheese. The interplay of art and message provides a visual narrative of how dairy is woven into our lives, promoting growth and vitality.
John Chrisman, CEO of the American Dairy Association North East, articulated the intended impact of the sculpture: "This year's butter sculpture beautifully showcases the power of dairy nutrition. The craftsmanship captures not just a scene, but a story — from nourishing mothers and helping babies grow to supporting thriving toddlers, dairy provides essential nutrients every step of the journey."
Jaime Mowry, a dairy farmer from LeRoy, NY, expressed her admiration for the sculpture, emphasizing its educational value for children and families alike. "It's such a fun and creative way to share an important message. As a mom, I know how critical it is to give kids a healthy start. Seeing that message come to life in butter, complete with so many surprising details, makes it all the more memorable."
Highlighting the tradition of the butter sculpture, Richard A. Ball, the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Commissioner, noted how it honors the tireless efforts of dairy farmers. He remarked, "Unveiling the Butter Sculpture is one of my favorite traditions at The Fair and a wonderful way to honor the dairy farmers who work tirelessly to feed our families and bring wholesome products to our communities every day. The sculpture also provides a unique and fun way to introduce fairgoers to and educate them about New York dairy."
Sponsoring the event, Wegmans Food Markets expressed pride in their association with this iconic attraction. Evelyn Ingram, the company's Director of Community Relations, said, "We are delighted to once again be a participant in this long-standing tradition."
The creation of the sculpture took artists Jim Victor and Marie Pelton of Conshohocken, Pennsylvania, a dedicated 11-day effort, utilizing over 800 pounds of butter sourced from O-AT-KA Milk Products in Western New York. Interestingly, this year marked the fourth consecutive year in which color enhanced the artistic elements of the butter sculpture, adding a vibrant and lively aspect to the representation of dairy.
Upon the conclusion of the fair, the recyclable butter will not go to waste. It will be transported to Noblehurst Farms in Linwood, NY, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary of transforming recycled butter into renewable energy. Over the past decade, Noblehurst has recycled eight thousand pounds of butter, averting landfill waste while generating enough power to fuel a home for about a month, thereby significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Festival-goers can marvel at the butter sculpture in the Dairy Products Building throughout the New York State Fair. To learn more about the event and the role of the dairy industry, visit americandairy.com/nystatefair.
This stunning display features a whimsical representation of a hot air balloon adorned with the phrase "Dairy Defies Gravity", symbolizing the uplifting benefits of dairy at various life stages. Beneath this enchanting balloon, visitors can see intricate butter carvings illustrating key moments in a person's life, beginning with a pregnant woman holding a glass of milk, to a six-month-old baby enjoying yogurt, and finally, a toddler relishing a slice of cheese. The interplay of art and message provides a visual narrative of how dairy is woven into our lives, promoting growth and vitality.
John Chrisman, CEO of the American Dairy Association North East, articulated the intended impact of the sculpture: "This year's butter sculpture beautifully showcases the power of dairy nutrition. The craftsmanship captures not just a scene, but a story — from nourishing mothers and helping babies grow to supporting thriving toddlers, dairy provides essential nutrients every step of the journey."
Jaime Mowry, a dairy farmer from LeRoy, NY, expressed her admiration for the sculpture, emphasizing its educational value for children and families alike. "It's such a fun and creative way to share an important message. As a mom, I know how critical it is to give kids a healthy start. Seeing that message come to life in butter, complete with so many surprising details, makes it all the more memorable."
Highlighting the tradition of the butter sculpture, Richard A. Ball, the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Commissioner, noted how it honors the tireless efforts of dairy farmers. He remarked, "Unveiling the Butter Sculpture is one of my favorite traditions at The Fair and a wonderful way to honor the dairy farmers who work tirelessly to feed our families and bring wholesome products to our communities every day. The sculpture also provides a unique and fun way to introduce fairgoers to and educate them about New York dairy."
Sponsoring the event, Wegmans Food Markets expressed pride in their association with this iconic attraction. Evelyn Ingram, the company's Director of Community Relations, said, "We are delighted to once again be a participant in this long-standing tradition."
The creation of the sculpture took artists Jim Victor and Marie Pelton of Conshohocken, Pennsylvania, a dedicated 11-day effort, utilizing over 800 pounds of butter sourced from O-AT-KA Milk Products in Western New York. Interestingly, this year marked the fourth consecutive year in which color enhanced the artistic elements of the butter sculpture, adding a vibrant and lively aspect to the representation of dairy.
Upon the conclusion of the fair, the recyclable butter will not go to waste. It will be transported to Noblehurst Farms in Linwood, NY, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary of transforming recycled butter into renewable energy. Over the past decade, Noblehurst has recycled eight thousand pounds of butter, averting landfill waste while generating enough power to fuel a home for about a month, thereby significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Festival-goers can marvel at the butter sculpture in the Dairy Products Building throughout the New York State Fair. To learn more about the event and the role of the dairy industry, visit americandairy.com/nystatefair.
Topics Consumer Products & Retail）
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