Sarah Lynn Richards, an artist and resident of Round Pond, has been chosen to be the official artist of the 2011 Derby Festival, which culminates in the Kentucky Derby.
Her work was chosen from among entrants from around the country to be the official Derby Festival Poster, which will also be featured on shirts and other merchandise made for the 30th year of the festival.
“It’s really exciting,” Richards said. “It’s such a spectacular event. It’s humbling to be among an impressive group of artists that have made these posters.”
Richards will be flown to Louisville in January for media events and the poster’s unveiling. She will then return to Kentucky April 24 for the festival, which concludes with the Derby May 7.
“I’m wicked nervous about all that,” Richards said. “It’s a big spotlight, but I think it will be pretty fun and it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
Richards said she’s most excited about the chance to be on the backside of the track for the warm up before the Derby.
“For a horse person, that’s really cool,” she said.
Richards’ artwork can be seen online at www.SarahLynnRichards.com.
