Kentucky Derby Festival unveils official 'Spirit of Kentucky' poster for 2023. Take a peek

How can you truly capture the energy, colors and excitement of the more than 70 events that make up the Kentucky Derby Festival and roll them all into one piece of art?

This is the challenge Louisville artist Liesl Long Chaintreuil took on when she created the 2023 official KDF poster which she named "Spirit of Kentucky." The poster was unveiled Friday at an event held at Welch Printing, 350 Boxley Ave., a longtime print partner of the Kentucky Derby Festival.

Cheaintreuil, a Louisville native and graduate of duPont Manual High School's Visual Arts Magnet, is known for her colorful palette and unique technique of using layers of patterns and papers in her work, which she showcases in her poster. The images are synonymous with the spring celebration and its favored traditions, including fireworks and hot air balloons. In a nod to the community and festival fans, Cheaintreuil also features people enjoying a variety of KDF activities and wearing an array of fashions.

“This is the first time that I have incorporated a Pegasus into my art," Chaintreuil said. “I enjoyed the challenge of bringing the many colors of people, places and events together in my own style. To me, it represents the colors and energy of the amazing Kentucky Derby Festival.”

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The 2023 "Spirit of Kentucky" poster is the 43rd poster in the Kentucky Derby Festival's iconic poster series, which was launched in 1981. Fans can pre-order the 2023 Limited Edition or Official Poster beginning Jan. 20 and receive free shipping on the order.

"Each poster image is unique in how it represents the Derby Festival and that’s always part of the excitement as it’s created and then unveiled each year," said Derby Festival Merchandising Manager Jennifer Morgan. "Liesl really re-imagined the Pegasus for this year's poster and incorporated it in an entirely new way. Instead of it being the focal point and a literal depiction, it’s part of the texture in the background, while still being a key element of the piece. We know it will be soon hanging on walls of both fans and collectors."

The Limited Edition of 500 signed and numbered posters retail for $60 and the Official poster is $30. Something new this year, you can also purchase an 8-inch-by-10-inch version of the poster for $20 and a postcard size for $5. All four options, created by the Derby Festival’s Official Merchandise Partner, 12/13 Apparel by Synergism, can be pre-ordered and will be shipped after the public release on March 16. Pre-order online at 1213apparel.com.

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If you'd like to see more of Chaintreuil's nationally recognized work, she creates children’s art for Colleen Karis Designs, available at T.J. Maxx and Home Goods stores throughout the country. She also specializes in Kentucky-themed art, which is available at several local art galleries and boutiques, and on her website, ArtByLiesl.com.

"I love to create a story behind each painting that presents a connection between the viewer and the painting. That is what makes art special. It unites and connects the heart of everyone it touches," said the artist. "There are so many exciting events to take inspiration from and I love painting things that represent my home state of Kentucky."

Reach features reporter Kirby Adams at kadams@courier-journal.com.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Kentucky Derby Festival unveils 'Spirit of Kentucky' 2023 poster