By Blake Jackson
The 57th Annual American Dairy Association North East Butter Sculpture has been unveiled at the New York State Fair, sponsored by Wegmans. This year’s creation, titled “Dairy For Good: Nourish. Grow. Thrive.,” highlights how dairy brings nourishment and joy throughout life.
The design also pays tribute to the 125th anniversary of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz and its New York-born author, L. Frank Baum.
At the heart of the display is a colourful hot air balloon marked with the phrase “Dairy Defies Gravity,” floating above a winding path symbolising life’s journey.
Along this path stand three butter figures: a pregnant woman drinking a glass of milk, a baby enjoying yogurt, and a toddler eating cheese, each representing how dairy supports growth at every stage.
"This year's butter sculpture beautifully showcases the power of dairy nutrition," said John Chrisman, CEO of American Dairy Association North East. "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."
Dairy farmer Jaime Mowry of Mowacres Farms II in LeRoy, NY, admired the display, adding: “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, and milk, cheese, and yogurt are everyday staples in our home. Seeing that message come to life in butter - complete with so many surprising details - makes it all the more memorable.”
“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," New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said.
"The Butter Sculpture also provides a unique and fun way to introduce fairgoers to and educate them about New York dairy. From the family farms that fuel our economy to the essential nutrients milk provides, dairy plays a fundamental role in keeping us strong and well-nourished."
Artists Jim Victor and Marie Pelton created the sculpture onsite over 11 days, using more than 800 pounds of butter from O-AT-KA Milk Products.
After the fair, the butter will be recycled at Noblehurst Farms in Linwood, N.Y., continuing their decade-long effort to convert the sculpture into renewable energy.
Photo Credit: ny-state-fair
Categories: New York, Business