A Community Landmark
A life-size fiberglass cow transformed into a celebration of cheese, wine, and the Del Ray neighborhood of Alexandria, Virginia. What began as a senior internship project became a permanent piece of community art.
Cheesetique
Del Ray, Alexandria VA
Acrylic & Varnish on Fiberglass
ACHS Senior Internship
Cheesetique, a beloved cheese and wine shop in the heart of Del Ray, has long had a life-size cow as part of their identity. For my senior internship project at Alexandria City High School, I was commissioned to reimagine Belle Ray—transforming her into a walking celebration of everything that makes this corner of Alexandria special.
The design weaves together the restaurant's identity with the vibrant Del Ray community. Every inch tells a story: the Cheesetique logo sits proudly alongside maps of cheese-producing regions, the George Washington Masonic Memorial anchors the local connection, and "Del Ray" is spelled out in colorful letters that match the neighborhood's playful spirit.
Working on a three-dimensional canvas of this scale—and one that would live in public view—pushed me to think differently about composition and narrative. Belle Ray isn't just a painted cow; she's a conversation piece, a photo opportunity, and a love letter to a community.
Every detail was chosen to celebrate Cheesetique and the Del Ray community
Cheese wheels, wedges, and the iconic Cheesetique logo (EST 2004)
Grape vines, wine bottles, and a champagne cork mid-pop
The George Washington Masonic Memorial represents Alexandria
Maps of France, Switzerland, and Italy honor cheese traditions
Colorful "DEL RAY" lettering in the neighborhood's playful style
"Hello, my name is Belle Ray" welcomes every visitor
The finished cow with Cheesetique branding
Work in progress - painting the France map
Grape vine details taking shape
France map with cities and landmarks
George Washington Masonic Memorial
Colorful "Del Ray" lettering
Celebratory champagne detail
The community meets Belle Ray