FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Original artwork from the Kentucky-native artist brings his signature roses to highlight the Run for the Roses™
LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023) – Churchill Downs Racetrack today released the 2024 “Official Art of the Kentucky Derby” by Kentucky artist, Wylie Caudill. Originally from Cynthiana, Ky., Wylie Caudill is renowned for his exceptional talent in murals and large-scale art. Caudill got his start doing chalk art on the streets of his college campus. After falling in love with public art, Wylie expanded his street art to murals that can be seen across Kentucky, many of which include his signature roses.
Caudill’s artwork for the 150th Kentucky Derby presented by Woodford Reserve highlights the 150th Kentucky Derby trophy at the forefront with the newly reimagined paddock as the background under the iconic Twin Spires. The piece features 150 red roses representing the Derby Winner’s Circle surrounded by white, gold and cerulean roses to symbolize the colorful fans of the Derby from around the world.
“We were drawn to Wylie’s rose design as it resonates with one of our most beloved Kentucky Derby traditions, which is presenting the winning Thoroughbred with a garland of red roses”, said Casey Ramage, Vice President of Marketing and Partnerships. “Wylie’s artwork captures Churchill Downs’ historic Twin Spires and our future by showcasing our newly reimagined Paddock to enhance the fan experience. We are thrilled to be working with him.”
In addition to creating the “Official Art of the Kentucky Derby,” Caudill will also be the official artist for the Woodford Reserve Commemorative Derby Bottle. As the official artist for both programs, Caudill will also create original murals around Churchill Downs and surprise locations next year leading up to the 150th Kentucky Derby.
“As a Kentucky Native, it is an immense honor to be part of such a milestone year for the Commonwealth’s most notable event,” Caudill said. “It’s difficult for me to fathom the scale of this opportunity and moment in history, but I am thrilled I was chosen to be the official artist for the 150th Kentucky Derby.”
Caudill’s “Official Art of the Kentucky Derby” will be featured on the 2024 Kentucky Derby official racing programs and a variety of merchandise. Prints will be available for purchase, including 150 special edition prints, at the first Road to Kentucky Derby race on Saturday (Sept. 16) at 11:30 a.m. ET at The Churchill Downs Store and Kentucky Derby Museum. Prints will be available online at www.KentuckyDerbyStore.com beginning Monday, Sept. 18. All other items will be available for purchase early Spring.
ABOUT CHURCHILL DOWNS RACETRACK
Churchill Downs Racetrack (“CDRT”), the world’s most legendary racetrack, has been the home of The Kentucky Derby, the longest continually held annual sporting event in the United States, since 1875. Located in Louisville, CDRT features a series of themed race days during Derby Week, including the Kentucky Oaks, and conducts Thoroughbred horse racing during three race meets in the Spring, September, and the Fall. CDRT is located on 175 acres and has a one-mile dirt track, a 7/8-mile turf track, a stabling area, and provides seating for approximately 60,000 guests. The stable area has barns sufficient to accommodate 1,400 horses and a 114-room dormitory for backstretch personnel. CDRT also has a year-round simulcast wagering facility. www.ChurchillDowns.com.
ABOUT THE KENTUCKY DERBY
The $3 million Kentucky Derby takes place on the first Saturday in May at historic Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky. Inaugurated in 1875, the legendary 1 ¼-mile race for 3-year-olds is the longest continually-held major sporting event in the United States and the first leg of horse racing’s Triple Crown series. Also known as “The Run for the Roses®” and “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports®,” the Kentucky Derby is the most attended horse race in the nation. The 150th Kentucky Derby will take place on May 4, 2024. For more information, please visit www.KentuckyDerby.com.
ABOUT WYLIE CAUDILL
Wylie Caudill is a Lexington-based artist that specializes in murals and large-scale art. Originally from Cynthiana, Ky., Caudill got his start doing chalk art on the streets of his college campus. After falling in love with public art, Caudill expanded his street art to murals that can be seen across Kentucky, many of which include his signature roses. His work includes projects for MTV and YouTube. For more information, visit www.wyliecaudill.com.