One of the more intriguing pieces of art in Melbourne’s Docklands precinct is Cow Up a Tree, a sculpture by artist John Kelly. The cow was originally created for a sculpture exhibition in Paris on the iconic Champs-Élysées to celebrate the millennium in 2000. In 2003, the Cow Up a Tree sculpture was installed overlooking Victoria Harbour, where it has since become a much-loved icon of Melbourne’s thriving Docklands precinct.
The cow, made of bronze and painted black and white, presents a surreal image inspired by an Australian flood scene. It depicts a cow caught upside down in the branches of a gum tree after a flood. The sculpture pays tribute to Australian painter Sir William Dobell, who during the Second World War painted stylised cows as decoys for airfields. Kelly’s cow features a quirky long neck, a square body, and distinctive camouflage-like markings, giving it a unique charm that captures the imagination of locals and visitors alike.
Melbourne’s Docklands is a vibrant waterfront area renowned for its blend of modern architecture, public art, and entertainment. Once a bustling industrial dock, the precinct has transformed into a dynamic urban hub featuring a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces. With its picturesque harbour, iconic landmarks, and attractions like shopping outlets, fine dining, and cultural installations, the Docklands is a favourite destination for both tourists and Melburnians. The area’s public art installations, such as Cow Up a Tree, add character and creativity to this revitalised part of the city.
