MACOMB, IL – Back by popular demand, the Western Illinois University College of Fine Arts and Communication (COFAC) will host another round of Rocky on Parade dogs for 2023.
The project, which began in 2013, stemmed from an idea by WIU Art Professor Bill Howard to place artist-designed, life-size fiberglass bulldogs around Macomb and the WIU campus. Since 2013, 89 dogs have been added to the Rocky on Parade pack.
As the project grew, the proceeds have funded seven annual scholarships for freshmen coming into the WIU Department of Art and Design.
This year, there will be 25 dog sponsorships available. A life-size dog can be purchased for $2,000, and a larger-than-life, “alpha” dog statue, is $3,700. Regional artists will be invited to make each Rocky an original work of art. The completed works will be mounted on concrete bases at a location designated by each sponsor. Artists and sponsors will be matched at the Artist Draft Day on Thursday, April 20.
Area school children, grades K-6, are invited to participate in the Rocky on Parade Coloring Contest. The winner of the contest will have their artwork replicated by an area artist as one of the options sponsors can choose from. Public voting on the children’s artwork will take place at the Rocky Rally, Saturday, March 25, at the Macomb Arts Center, 26 East Side Square, Macomb.
Sponsors are welcome to attend the Rocky Rally, and sponsorships are due that day.
For more information on becoming a sponsor, and the Rocky Rally, visit wiu.edu/rop.
Copy Provided By University Communications
