World Equestrian Games Artwork

The World Games 2010 Foundation has unveiled the Official Image of the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, created by internationally renowned artist LeRoy Neiman.

“Having a LeRoy Neiman painting is a special achievement for any major sporting event, and we are honored that the 2010 Games has joined the list of events captured on his canvas,” said John Long, Chairman of the World Games 2010 Foundation Board of Directors.

The painting features each of the eight equestrian sports that comprise the World Equestrian Games, illustrated in Mr. Neiman’s style of brilliantly-colored, energetic imagery. As the Official Commemorative Artist of the 2010 Games, creating the piece was a return to a subject, and a place, with which Mr. Neiman has had a lifelong love.

“The horse has always been a favorite subject of mine, from the work horse to race horses,” said Mr. Neiman. “Kentucky is horse country, where this noble animal is prominent and appreciated. It has been a joy to paint the eight different disciplines for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games. I’m looking forward to attending in 2010 with sketchbook in hand.”

The painting will initially be displayed at the International Museum of the Horse at Lexington’s Kentucky Horse Park, the site of the 2010 Games. A traveling schedule for the painting is in development. In addition, Cobalt Artworks of Louisville, Kentucky hopes to present a retrospective exhibition featuring Mr. Neiman’s collection of equestrian work in downtown Lexington during the 2010 Games.

The Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games are the world championships of eight equestrian disciplines recognized by the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), and are held every four years. The Games have never before been held outside of Europe; nor have all eight disciplines competed at a single site—both firsts that will be achieved at the Kentucky Horse Park.

“When it comes to sports, and particularly sport in America, LeRoy Neiman has been an icon for more than a half century. We are extremely pleased and honored to know that he will now be represented in our collections,” said Bill Cooke, Director of the International Museum of the Horse. “That his wonderful painting depicts all aspects of the most significant event in the history of the Kentucky Horse Park makes this even more special.”