Steeplechase Accepts Work from Prospective ‘Featured Artists’

The Iroquois Steeplechase, Nashville’s annual rite of spring since 1941, is accepting submissions through Sept. 23 from equestrian artists who are interested in becoming the event’s Featured Artist for 2017.

Each year, the Iroquois Steeplechase, under the direction of the non-profit 501(c)3 organization the Volunteer State Horsemen’s Foundation, selects an artist to create a piece that captures and conveys the spirited sport of steeplechasing. The artwork is used throughout the year to promote the event, which is always held the second Saturday of each May at Percy Warner Park, just north of Old Hickory Boulevard. The art is auctioned off the night before the race to support the organization’s primary beneficiary, Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt.

“The selection of the Featured Artist is a tradition that we look forward to every year,” said Libby Cheek, executive director of the Iroquois Steeplechase. “We have chosen oil paintings that are as detailed as photographs and other pieces that are more abstract. The guidelines are loose to encourage creativity.”

Hollie Berry of Chattanooga, Tenn. was named the 2016 Featured Artist, and used oil on wood panel to create “Endurance,” a painting depicting a group of vibrantly colored jockey-mounted horses jumping over a fence.

“We will consider any and all submissions,” Cheek said. “This is a terrific opportunity for local artists to receive exposure, and we are always amazed at the talent we have the privilege to review.”

The Volunteer State Horsemen’s Foundation will review submissions received through Friday, Sept. 23.

Those interested should email Libby Cheek at [email protected] with a brief bio and work samples. After the Featured Artist is selected, the Foundation will establish a deadline for when the artwork should be completed so that it can be revealed to the public.

Since being designated as the official charity in 1981, the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt has received more than $10 million from Iroquois Steeplechase proceeds. For more information, go to www.iroquoissteeplechase.org.