The last time we went to a trendy art show we mistook the prize-winning exhibit for a trash can and got thrown out for corrupting its unbridled purity with a soggy sandwich wrapper. And arguing that our alleged misdemeanor was in fact an experimental statement juxtaposing genuine litter with pretentious garbage just didn't cut it with security.

The point being, we don't know Jackson Pollock about art. But you needn't know your Rolfs from your Renoirs to appreciate the brilliance of the Paint Your Own CowParade Cow Kit. That's because this highly innovative painting set is part of a global art movement that can be enjoyed by expert brush-slingers and udder novices alike.

So what's all this CowParade moo-larkey about then? Well, CowParade is a roving international art show that has been featured in major cities across the globe. Sculptures of cows are decorated by local artists and then displayed in public places such as train stations and parks. The cows frequently feature designs specific to local culture, as well as city life and other relevant themes.



For some unfathomable reason cows lend themselves perfectly to all manner of weird and wacky designs. Although the robust resin cow that comes with the Paint Your Own CowParade Cow Kit isn't life-size, you can still let your imagination run wild. Simply get busy dipping the high quality paintbrush into the six tubs of water-based paint and Monet's your uncle.

We've gone cow-razy here at the Firebox Mooseum of Modern Art. The place is stacked with psychedelic cows, gothic cows, pinstripe cows, Britpop cows, hip-hop cows, comedy cows, Warhol-esque cows - the possibilities are endless. You could even go nuts and paint yours black and white with a bright pink udder and... hold on, that's what normal cows look like, isn't it?

Even if you haven't handled a paintbrush since your school days, we guarantee your inner creative genius will be reawakened the second you set eyes on your unadorned moo-cow. And once you've customized one you'll want a whole herd of these udderly charming creatures. Because as well as exercising your imagination, CowParade Cows make seriously original gifts and über-quirky desktop companions. So hurry up and get ordering before we paint our entire herd. Moo!

Blank cow canvas: