Public art features Western Illinois University mascot

MACOMB, Ill. (AP) - Western Illinois University's mascot "Rocky" the bulldog is showing up all over Macomb.

A 2013 public art project placed 14 statues of the canine - officially named Col. Rock III - around the western Illinois community and the WIU campus.

This year an additional 23 sponsors have come forward to bring the total number of statues to 37.

Art Professor Bill Howard is the brainchild of the project. He says the community support "just blows my mind."

College of Fine Arts and Communication Dean Billy Clow compared the displays to the "Cows on Parade" that were a hit in downtown Chicago more than a decade ago.

Sponsorships range from $1,500 for life-size dog statues to $3,000 for larger statues. The money goes toward art student scholarships.