Gatton Park Displays 54 Painted Jockey Forms
The A Canvas of Silks exhibition showcases local artistry ahead of an upcoming charity auction.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Fine Art
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Lexington residents can view 54 artist-designed jockey forms at Gatton Park. The display, titled A Canvas of Silks, celebrates the intersection of the city's equine culture and local creative community.
Why it matters
The project serves as a fundraiser for LexArts, with proceeds supporting local arts grants and community programming. The initiative highlights Lexington's regional identity by integrating traditional equestrian motifs with contemporary art.
The exhibit features 54 unique jockey forms that were commissioned following an open artist call. The collection is currently open to the public daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. at Gatton Park.
The players
LexArts
LexArts is a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering the arts and cultural growth in the Lexington region.
The details
Selected artists were commissioned by LexArts to create the designs for the forms, which are now on display for public viewing. These pieces will eventually be sold to generate financial support for local arts initiatives.
Timeline
October 22, 2026: Live auction for the jockey forms begins.
October 27, 2026: Jockey forms move to the Old County Courthouse.
Through Breeders' Cup: Jockey forms remain on display at the courthouse.
Industry Dynamics
This exhibition follows the established pattern of LexArts' mission to fund local creative endeavors through community-centered art installations. By leveraging public art as a fundraising vehicle, the project mirrors broader trends where cultural organizations turn to branded installations to secure operational revenue.
Residents can view the collection daily between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. at Gatton Park before the forms relocate to the Old County Courthouse. The pieces will remain available for public viewing through the duration of the Breeders' Cup.
The takeaway
The A Canvas of Silks exhibit offers a unique opportunity to view local art before it is auctioned to support community grants. Interested buyers and art enthusiasts should mark their calendars for the October 22 auction date.
What happens next
The jockey forms will be sold in a live auction on October 22, 2026, followed by a relocation to the Old County Courthouse on October 27, 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about local cultural projects on the Lexington Fine Art page.
More information
For additional details on the exhibit and auction, visit the LexArts organization website.
Source note: This article includes information reported by LEX 18 News - Lexington, KY (WLEX).
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