Regional artists from Kentucky and surrounding states will be juried in a two-step process to paint and embellish life-sized fiberglass horses for outdoor display in Lexington, Kentucky, during the summer and fall of 2022. Although most of the horses will be exhibited in downtown Lexington, selected public spaces in several other Lexington locations will also host Horse Mania 2022 horses.
No other public art initiative in our city’s history has captured the hearts and imaginations of Lexingtonians and visitors as Horse Mania did back in 2000 and 2010.
Fiberglass horses measuring six by eight feet have been ordered and will arrive in Lexington mid to late-January. Each horse weighs between 115 and 140 lbs. Artists are requested to submit designs for painting and embellishing the horses for this major public art project.
The Horse Mania 2022 project will arrange for horses to be mounted on a concrete pallet; an identifying plaque(s) will be affixed to the pallet naming the horse, the artist, and the sponsor.
The goal in presenting Horse Mania 2022 is to instill in the Lexington community an understanding and enjoyment of public art.
In addition, this online form must be completed including artist contact information, resume (optional) and digital horsemania proposals. The online form must be completed by 5pm on December 10, 2021.
If you have trouble with the online application or need assistance, please contact LexArts staff at horsemania@lexarts.org or 859.255.2951.
LexArts will pay an honorarium of $3,000 to artists selected and matched with a horse sponsor. Additionally, artists will receive 10% of net proceeds (final auction price less 5% administrative fee) from the auction of their respective horse. If the horse is sold prior to auction, 10% of the sold price will go to artist.
Artists will be expected to pick up and transport horses to and from a warehouse in Lexington, at their expense. Uncrated horses weigh between 115 and 145 lbs. Horses can be moved in the bed of an 8′ pickup truck secured to plywood and held with ratchet straps.
Artists are responsible for the cost of all materials related to completing the selected designs.
Payment will be made to artists at the time the completed horse is delivered to the designated warehouse.
