NEW YORK.- The great "melting pot" of New York City welcomes some notable international visitors from down under today - Aussie Kangaroos. These unique 'Roos have come to America in partnership with Gen Art and in support of World Wildlife Fund. The 'Roos will be "hopping" around New York City through January, visiting various tourist destinations, landmarks and festivals.

The Aussie 'Roos are fiberglass sculptures, all of which are decorated by local artists through a partnership with Gen Art, the nation's leading non- profit arts organization dedicated to showcasing emerging artists. "We are thrilled to be working with such talented artists on this project," said Christopher Keith, Brand Manager for Aussie. "Just as Aussie hair care products mix 'n match to create the 'do that's right for you, these Gen Art artists have mix 'n matched a variety of tools and materials to create each unique 'Roo design. We're happy to welcome these 'Roos to America!"

Each of the artists chosen designed a 'Roo to reflect the general theme of "embracing cultural diversity," whether it be the experience of "coming to America," "finding new habitats" or "accepting cultural differences." Many of the artists, who come from differing international backgrounds, bring to their 'Roo designs the sense of whimsical humor associated with the Aussie hair care brand. Artists chosen by Gen Art and curator Sebastien Agneessens to design the 'Roos include: Steve Marcus; Nora Krug; Faile; the team of Rie Takeuchi, Mika Machida and Akari Inoguchi; Bast; Marc Alary; RoStarr; the duo of Shinya Nakamura and Junko; Murphy; and Enrique Enriquez, who worked with his children on the project.

The 'Roos' stay in New York City supports World Wildlife Fund, the global conservation organization, committed to protecting endangered species and their habitats. "World Wildlife Fund is proud to work with the Aussie 'Roo Parade to raise awareness for wildlife and habitat conservation, not only here in New York, but in communities across the country," said Mark Pilipczuk, Vice President, Marketing for WWF.

The 'Roos' visit to New York City marks their first public sighting since their arrival to America as seen in national television commercials at the beginning of November. The current Aussie advertising campaign features the theme "Coming to America."