The nationwide art competition to celebrate Preakness 150 has launched, announced 1/ST, the company that sponsors the annual contest. “The Art of Racing” competition is in its fourth year, and this year marks the milestone 150th running of the Preakness Stakes.
The competition supports the revitalization efforts of Park Heights Renaissance, inviting artists to use their creativity to depict an iconic Maryland event while supporting the structural and economic transformation of one of Baltimore’s most dynamic neighborhoods.
1/ST in partnership with The Maryland Jockey Club calls for entries of original, two-dimensional visual art celebrating the Preakness Stakes and Thoroughbred horse racing, the unique competition commemorates the middle jewel of the Triple Crown Series, and this year’s 150th running of the Preakness Stakes.
“We’re thrilled to officially kick off the 2025 Art of Racing, inviting artists nationwide to celebrate Preakness 150 and the incredible sport of Thoroughbred racing through creativity,” said Audra Madison, Director of Marketing for The Maryland Jockey Club. “The Art of Racing unites art, tradition and support for the Park Heights community. We would love to see 150 submissions to celebrate Preakness 150!”
In 2024, “The Art of Racing” contest received over 149 entries, with Leo Kahl’s original artwork entitled “First Turn” being named the winner.
After the call for submissions is over, there will be an open voting phase from March 15 through March 28, 2025, during which the public may cast their votes for their favorite works of art on the website. The top ten entries will advance as finalists, and the winner will be chosen by a distinguished panel of judges from the artistic, business, philanthropic and political sectors, who consistently support Park Heights as the home of the Preakness Stakes.
The artist with the winning entry will receive $4,000 and two tickets to Preakness 150 on Saturday, May 17, 2025. Their work will be reproduced on a curated collection of Preakness 150 merchandise available for purchase online and onsite during Preakness weekend. Proceeds from those sales will benefit Park Heights Renaissance, the non-profit organization pursuing employment opportunities and affordable housing for Park Heights residents.
“The Art of Racing is a powerful tribute to the rich history and vibrant culture of the Preakness. Each year, this competition not only showcases incredible artistic talent but also fosters our community’s deep connection to the Preakness Stakes,” said Yolanda Jiggetts, CEO of Park Heights Renaissance. “We are excited that the Park Heights community remains at the heart of this celebrated tradition.”
“The Art of Racing beautifully showcases Baltimore’s rich cultural tapestry and our enduring connection to the Preakness Stakes,” said Tonya Miller Hall, Senior Advisor of Arts and Culture for the City of Baltimore. “This competition is more than art—it’s a celebration of tradition, creativity, and the vibrant spirit of Park Heights, a community that embodies the heart of our city.”
Beginning today, artists can submit their entries to this “Art of Racing” link on the Preakness website. Submissions will be accepted through March 14.
This was an awesome idea although, originally, the organizers presumed that only MIC/A students would apply. So many wonderful entrants that the public could vote for!