In Green Bay, football and cheese collided to create unforgettable memories at this years NFL Draft. Many people made special memories during the NFL Draft events, including one talented artist: Vicki Janisch.
Known for her love of dairy, Vicki turned heads by carving Wisconsin cheese into touchdown-worthy works of art.
Before her carving days, Vicki worked with AgrAbility, helping farm families overcome physical challenges. Then, she joined Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin to promote the power of Wisconsin dairy across the state. Now, she proudly spreads that message in an even more creative way — by carving cheese into amazing works of art.
Last week, she was the focal point at the NFL Taste of the Draft event held in Green Bay.
When asked how she started cheese carving, Vicki said, “I think it was just leaning in and saying yes to opportunity.” She credits her start to Sarah Kaufmann, a well-known cheese carver who helped introduce her to the art form.
However, preparing for the event took a lot of research, creativity, and patience.
“There’s no blueprint for the Lombardi Trophy,” Vicki explained. “I couldn’t just break into Lambeau and measure it.” Instead, she spent hours sketching, testing, and refining her designs before she carved live for the crowd.
While carving, Vicki used cheddar cheese because of its texture and carving qualities. “I haven’t met a cheese I didn’t like yet,” she laughed. “But cheddar works really well when aged at least a year.”
Vicki also enjoyed connecting with dairy farmers and processors who help create Wisconsin’s award-winning cheese. “It’s important to share the story about the great milk that makes our cheese so special,” Vicki said.
Organizers originally asked Vicki to carve only the Lombardi Trophy for the Taste of the Draft. However, as excitement grew, she was invited to carve live throughout the day for attendees.
You can find her creations by following her on Instagram under the name Artistic Agriculturalist.
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