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Spotlight On The Arts: Horsing Around

Lexington popular Horse Mania art project is returning for 2022.

By wmadministrator

One of Central Kentucky’s most popular public art projects will be returning in 2022.

LexArts is now accepting applications from artists throughout Kentucky and surrounding states to create Horse Mania 2022, in which they will paint and embellish life-size fiberglass horses that will be on display at various locations throughout Lexington.

LexArts is a nonprofit organization that works to develop a strong arts community as a means of enhancing life in Central Kentucky.
Horse Mania was first introduced by LexArts in 2000 and became the launching point for other public art projects such as many of the murals that can be seen throughout Lexington. Horse Mania made a fitting return in 2010 in conjunction with the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, which were held at the Kentucky Horse Park and brought more than 500,000 visitors from all around the world.

“This public arts initiative has twice captured the hearts and imaginations of Lexingtonians and visitors,” said LexArts President and CEO Anne Sewall. “Judging by the impact of Horse Mania 2000 and 2010, Horse Mania 2022 is an odds-on favorite to be another stellar public art project.”

The 2022 exhibit will feature 50 horses and sponsorship opportunities are available for each. Sponsorships, which can be either businesses or individuals, are available for $7,500 and include acknowledgment via a plaque affixed to the base on which the horse is mounted as well as inclusion on the Horse Mania 2022 website, printed materials and social media. A jury will select artists in January, after which time sponsors will have the opportunity to choose the artist for their project.

Artists interested in participating in the project may submit up to three different designs and must have their applications submitted to LexArts by Dec. 10, 2021. Those selected will be paid an honorarium of $3,000 and will also receive 10% of the net proceeds from the auction of their horse.

Horse Mania 2022 will go on display in April 2022, to coincide with Keeneland’s Spring Meet, and will remain through November, when Keeneland will be hosting the prestigious Breeders’ Cup. The horses will then be auctioned at Keeneland in December 2022. (Sponsors who wish to retain their horse can do so for an additional $7,500.)

Additional information for both prospective artists and sponsors is available at lexarts.org/discover/horsemania. 

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