The Indy 500 may look a little bit different this year, but local artists are still excited to “welcome race fans” as they gear up for another running of The Greatest Spectacle in Racing.
With the Indy 500 slated to take place on August 23 with no spectators in attendance, the Arts Council of Indianapolis (ACI) and Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS) have teamed up yet again for their “Welcome Race Fans” initiative, presenting commemorative posters and signage designed by Indianapolis artists in celebration of the race. As we all prepare to watch or listen to the 104th running of the Indianapolis 500, AIC and IMS are selling uniquely designed 2020 “Welcome Race Fans” posters designed by five Indianapolis artists, along with giclée prints of the iconic artworks from the last five years.
From left to right: Becky Hochhalter; Martin Kuntz; Josh Betsey; Jingo de la Rosa; and Joy Hernandez
It’s worth noting that the "Welcome Race Fans" artists participating in the fundraiser will receive a flat licensing fee and 10% of the sales of prints of their artwork (after printing/shipping costs). The remainder of the proceeds will help replenish the Indy Arts & Culture COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund, which awarded 950 rapid-response $500 grants from March through May to support arts and cultural workers who suffered sudden, severe income losses caused by venue closures and events cancellations due to COVID-19.
“It is a unique year to be sure, but even more reason to celebrate the history and tradition of the race and racing culture in Indianapolis as we virtually welcome millions of fans to Indy via the live broadcast,” says ACI vice president Shannon Linker. “Because we don't have access to as many fans this year out at events, we didn't print thousands of posters to give away — we printed a limited number and are selling them as a fundraiser for the Artist Relief Fund. This way, we can celebrate the race and support the vital artists in our community at the same time, when they need it most.”
The “Welcome Race Fans” partnership between ACI and IMS is one that began back in 2016 to mark the 100th Running of the Indy 500, and it’s now involved a slew of talented Indianapolis artists of various backgrounds. For the 2020 posters, featured artists include Becky Hochhalter, Martin Kuntz, Josh Betsey, Jingo de la Rosa and Joy Hernandez.
To support and learn more about the “Welcome Race Fans” initiative leading up to the race, be sure to visit the official “Welcome Race Fans” website.