In anticipation of the milestone Preakness 150, 1/ST in partnership with The Maryland Jockey Club, announces the launch of the 2025 Art of Racing art competition. Now in its fourth year, The Art of Racing competition supports the revitalization efforts of Park Heights Renaissance, by inviting artists to showcase their creativity while contributing to the transformation of one of Baltimore's most dynamic neighborhoods.
As a nationwide call for entries of original, two-dimensional visual art celebrating the Preakness Stakes and Thoroughbred horse racing, the unique competition commemorates the middle jewel of the Triple Crown Series, and this year's 150th running of the Preakness Stakes. Beginning today, artists can submit their entries to www.preakness.com/the-art-of-racing. Submissions will be accepted through March 14th.
"We're thrilled to officially kick off the 2025 Art of Racing, inviting artists nationwide to celebrate Preakness 150 and the incredible sport of Thoroughbred racing through creativity," said Audra Madison, Director of Marketing, The Maryland Jockey Club. "The Art of Racing unites art, tradition and support for the Park Heights community. We would love to see 150 submissions to celebrate Preakness 150!"
Last year, the program received over 149 captivating entries, each piece of artwork vividly capturing the thrilling essence of Thoroughbred horse racing, with every creation offering a unique perspective on the legendary Preakness Stakes. Following the call for submissions, the competition will feature an open voting phase from March 15th to March 28th, during which time the public is invited to cast their vote for their favorite work of art through the Art of Racing website.
The top ten entries will advance as finalists, with the winner chosen by a distinguished panel of judges from the artistic, business, philanthropic and political sectors, who consistently support Park Heights as the home of the Preakness Stakes.
The winning artist of the fourth-annual competition will be awarded a $4,000 prize and two tickets to Preakness 150 on Saturday, May 17, 2025. In addition, their work will be reproduced on a curated collection of Preakness 150 merchandise that will be available for purchase online and onsite during Preakness weekend. Proceeds from merchandise sales will again be directed to the Park Heights Renaissance, a non-profit organization pursuing employment opportunities and affordable housing for Park Heights residents.
"The Art of Racing is a powerful tribute to the rich history and vibrant culture of the Preakness. Each year, this competition not only showcases incredible artistic talent but also fosters our community's deep connection to the Preakness Stakes," said Yolanda Jiggetts, CEO of Park Heights Renaissance. "We are excited that the Park Heights community remains at the heart of this celebrated tradition."
1/ST, The Maryland Jockey Club and the Park Heights Renaissance have an ongoing partnership to raise awareness of Park Heights' storied culture. The Art of Racing is part of a series of initiatives between 1/ST and the Park Heights Renaissance that includes the George E. Mitchell Black-Eyed Susan Stakes and the George E. Mitchell Park Heights Community Fellowship Grant. As an extension of the late community advocate George E. Mitchell's legacy, The Art of Racing recognizes and honors individuals who demonstrate a similarly commendable commitment to the Park Heights community.
The winner of last year's competition was Leo Kahl, a Baltimore-based artist and MICA Alum, whose original illustration titled "First Turn" was selected from among the 149 total submissions.
Baltimore City's involvement in the Art of Racing competition highlights the city's deep-rooted connection to the Preakness Stakes and the vibrant community of Park Heights. By showcasing the talents of artists from across the nation, this partnership not only celebrates the tradition and excitement of Thoroughbred horse racing but also supports initiatives aimed at revitalizing Park Heights. Through this competition, Baltimore continues to provide a platform for creative expression while empowering the local community, fostering growth, and driving prosperity in one of the city's most culturally significant neighborhoods.
"The Art of Racing beautifully showcases Baltimore's rich cultural tapestry and our enduring connection to the Preakness Stakes," said Tonya Miller Hall, Senior Advisor of Arts and Culture for the City of Baltimore. "This competition is more than art--it's a celebration of tradition, creativity, and the vibrant spirit of Park Heights, a community that embodies the heart of our city."
For more information on The Art of Racing, please visit www.preakness.com/the-art-of-racing or follow @PreaknessStakes and #Preakness on social media.
This press release has not been edited by BloodHorse. If there are any questions please contact the organization that produced the release.
