Artist Tyler Robertson Chosen For 2025 ‘Official Art of the Kentucky Derby’

Nov 18, 2024 Hayley Armstrong

A classic and colorful painting by Tyler Robertson has been formally unveiled by Churchill Downs Racetrack as the 2025 “Official Art of the Kentucky Derby.”

Joining the ranks of Leroy Neiman, Trish Biddle and Romero Britto in this storied art program, Louisville-based artist Robertson is known for his dynamic sporting art, bold colors and palette knife techniques to incorporate classical aesthetics and symbolism that add depth and narrative to his expressive style.

Robertson’s bright artwork for the 151st Kentucky Derby presented by Woodford Reserve celebrates the iconic image of horses running into the first turn with the historic Churchill Downs clubhouse and famous Twin Spires in the background.

A former Louisville elementary school teacher for nearly 20 years, Robertson is inspired by contemporary, modern and stylized art. Previously, he was an officially licensed artist for the 2024 PGA Championship at Valhalla Golf Club, and he recently exhibited “A Hero’s Journey: a contemporary study of jockeys” in London. His love for horse racing developed while attending the University of Louisville in 2001.

Robertson will be at Churchill Downs on Friday, Nov. 29 to sign prints of his artwork. The artist signing will take place in the Churchill Downs Store, located just inside the Paddock Gate, between 2-4 p.m.

“We are thrilled to showcase Tyler’s talent as this year’s artist,” said Casey C. Ramage, Vice President of Marketing and Partnerships, Churchill Downs Racetrack. “His artwork celebrates the iconic spectacle of the Kentucky Derby through his vibrant, visual style and brings a fresh perspective that fans will cherish for generation to come.”

Roberston’s “Official Art of the Kentucky Derby” will be featured on the 2025 Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks official racing programs and a variety of merchandise.

“I’m incredibly honored to be named the official artist for 151st running of the Kentucky Derby and join the legacy of artists who’ve captured this iconic event,” Robertson said. “As a sporting artist focused on Thoroughbreds, this is a thrilling opportunity to share my style and celebrate the power and elegance of these athletes on such a prestigious stage.”

Prints and select merchandise will be available for purchase at www.KentuckyDerbyStore.com starting on Friday, Nov. 29.

ABOUT THE KENTUCKY DERBY

The $3 million Kentucky Derby takes place on the first Saturday in May at historic Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky. Inaugurated in 1875, the legendary 1 ¼-mile race for 3-year-olds is the longest continually-held major sporting event in the United States and the first leg of horse racing’s Triple Crown series. Also known as, “The Run for the Roses” and “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports,” the Kentucky Derby is the most attended horse race in the nation. The 151st Kentucky Derby will take place on May 3, 2025. For more information, please visit www.KentuckyDerby.com.

ABOUT CHURCHILL DOWNS RACETRACK

Churchill Downs Racetrack (“CDRT”), the world’s most legendary racetrack, has been the home of the Kentucky Derby, the longest continually held annual sporting event in the United States, since 1875. Located in Louisville, CDRT features a series of themed race days during Derby Week, including the Kentucky Oaks, and conducts Thoroughbred horse racing during three race meets in the Spring, September, and the Fall. CDRT is located on 175 acres and has a one-mile dirt track, a 7/8-mile turf track, a stabling area, and provides seating for approximately 60,000 guests. The stable area has barns sufficient to accommodate 1,400 horses and a 114-room dormitory for backstretch personnel. CDRT also has a year-round simulcast wagering facility and Race and Sports Book. www.ChurchillDowns.com.