LOUISVILLE, Ky. (FOX 56) — The Kentucky Derby festivities have officially begun.

Churchill Downs unveiled its official art for the 150th Kentucky Derby: “Run for the Roses”.

Commissioned by Cynthiana artist Wylie Caudill, the piece features the signature derby trophy in front of the newly renovated paddock, under the iconic twin spires. Not to forget the 150 red roses, representing the Derby Winner’s Circle, surrounded by white, gold, and cerulean roses to symbolize the fans of the Derby from around the world.

  • The official art for the 150th Kentucky Derby (Wylie Caudill)
  • The official art for the 150th Kentucky Derby (Churchill Downs)

“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.”

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 include murals that can be seen across Kentucky, many of which include his signature roses.

According to Mayor Linda Gorton, Caudill’s work can be found all over Lexington. Here are a few you might recognize:

  • Wylie Caudill painting Crank and Boom’s staple distillery district mural (Wylie Caudill)
  • Wylie Caudill’s Greyline Station entrance mural (Wylie Caudill)
  • “Big Lex” by Wylie Caudill. This mural can be enjoyed at the Summit at Fritz Farm (Wylie Caudill)
  • Crank and Boom (Wylie Caudill)
  • The Grove by Wylie Caudill downtown Lexington (Wylie Caudill)

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In addition to 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.”

Prints will be available for purchase, including 150 special edition prints, at the first Road to the Kentucky Derby race at 11:30 a.m. EST on Saturday at The Churchill Downs Store and Kentucky Derby Museum. Prints will be available online beginning Sept. 18. All other items will be available for purchase early in the spring.