LEXINGTON is known around the world for its equestrian heritage, and now downtown Lexington is adding a captivating public art experience aptly named “Hidden Horses.”
Hidden Horses brings playful foal sculptures to life across downtown Lexington, strategically placed in over 20 downtown locations, from Thoroughbred Park to Triangle Park.
The installation features five different poses handcrafted by renowned equine artists Kiptoo Tarus, Steve Johnson, Michele Hunter and Jocelyn Russell.
This unique blend of art and history was the original idea of founding Hidden Horses committee member Rebecca Sherman. Inspired to create a “love letter” to her community while attending Commerce Lexington’s Emerge in 2019, Sherman imagined the Hidden Horses project as an interactive public art installation of tiny bronze foals embedded in the downtown streetscape, paying homage to the equestrian community.
With support from Keeneland and Maker’s Mark, the project transformed into a public art installation highlighting what makes Lexington a vibrant community and an iconic equine destination.
“Hidden Horses is more than just a public art project; it’s a celebration of our city’s spirit,” said Sherman. “We hope this project will inspire a sense of pride and community in Lexington.”
Each foal is not just a work of art but a tribute to Lexington’s rich equestrian culture and celebrates the legacy of equine establishments like Claiborne, Coolmore, Godolphin, and Lane’s End.
“Treasure hunt” public art concepts have proven to be an economic development generator for many other downtown markets. Infusing accessible and free public art brings new vitality and visitors to downtown, generating an increased economic impact and quality of life to Lexington.
As locals and visitors explore, they can connect with fellow adventurers and join conversation using #HiddenHorsesLexington. The project will include a fulfillment component to be announced at a later date.
Hidden Horses is a LexArts project sponsored by Maker’s Mark, Keeneland, VisitLEX and Horse Country.
For more information visit HiddenHorsesLex.com.
