Local artist leaves mark on Kentucky Derby 150
Wylie Caudill completes mural to commemorate the 150th Run for the Roses
LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WTVQ) — It’s Derby week at Churchill Downs.
As the historic track nears the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby, it marks an incredible milestone for not only the venue, but also Kentucky-based artist Wylie Caudill.
“It’s been an incredible experience,” says Caudill. “I’m just so fortunate to have this experience.”
On a humid, yet overcast morning at Churchill Downs, the Lexington native and Eastern Kentucky University alum is nearing the finish line on a mural that will be displayed near the track’s entrance.
“I love that I’m from Kentucky, and they hired a local Kentucky artist to do this job,” says Caudill.
The project, in partnership with Woodford Reserve and Churchill Downs, to commemorate the 150th Run for the Roses.
“I’ve never felt more like a Kentuckian than I do now,” he explains.
For the artist born and bred in the Bluegrass, each brush stroke is carefully measured.
“I normally have a podcast going or some music, I can totally zone out,” explains Caudill. “It’s very, it’s very therapeutic.”
Bright colors and vivid images portraying a jockey riding a horse, encapsulated by roses, will be on full display all throughout the biggest weekend in all of horseracing.
“It’s a pretty unfathomable thought to think of thousands of people coming through here taking a photo with this,” Caudill imagines. “I don’t think it’ll really sink until I see them all lined up, taking their photo, but we’ll see.”
Known for his signature colorful roses, Caudill was contracted by Woodford Reserve last year, and interviewed to become the official artist of Kentucky Derby 150. He was eventually offered the position and accepted.
“It’s been so difficult to process the [150th running of the Kentucky Derby],” reflects Caudill. “To think I’m a part of this big, historical thing and not just the Kentucky Derby — but a milestone year.”
And as we head down the final stretch into Derby weekend —
“I just feel so lucky and fortunate,” Caudill exclaims.
The Lexingtonian, leaving his indelible mark on his Old Kentucky Home.
“I still have yet to put it into words,” says Caudill, “But maybe after it’s all said and done, I’ll have some more perspective on all of this.”
