LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Churchill Downs announced Romero Britto as the official artist of Derby 149 and unveiled his official poster for the Kentucky Derby.
The Miami-based Romero is originally from Brazil and one look at this year’s Derby print and you can tell he uses his birthplace and hometown for inspiration. The recent Derby art hasn’t featured such bold, brilliant color. Britto’s work evokes some of the same shapes, colors and styles seen on the silks worn by jockeys at the track.
Britto is the founder of the Happy Art Movement, which he started in 1992 with “the mission to inspire happiness, fun, love and optimism around the globe through his unique art and vibrant colors.”
“I’m honored to partner with Churchill Downs to unveil the official art of this year’s Kentucky Derby and celebrate this spectacular occasion,” Britto said.
“The race is such an iconic and fun event that no one better than Britto to create a masterpiece that elicits the happiness and passion associated with it,” added Lucas Vidal, CEO of the BRITTO organization.
Limited-edition poster prints featuring Britto’s work are on sale now for $100 at the Kentucky Derby Store. There are only 1,000 posters available. Britto’s art will be featured on both the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks 149 programs and countless other official race souvenirs. The other merchandise featuring the artwork will be available to fans beginning in February.
The 149th running of the Kentucky Oaks will be on Friday, May 5 and the Kentucky Derby will run Saturday, May 6.