Have you ever wondered who’s responsible for designing all the merchandise + memorabilia for the Kentucky Derby? We have.
Today, we’d like to introduce you to Aimee Griffith — Lexingtonian, mother, owner of Watercolors by Aimee + the official artist of Kentucky Derby 148 and the Kentucky Oaks.
How long have you been painting?
I started in December of 2016, so five years now. My daughter was one-year-old when I started.
How did you get started painting?
When I lived in Australia, we used to go to art galleries + museums all the time because they were free and I could take my kids. I got inspired to try painting so I took a class, and I loved it. From there, I started taking workshops — two or 3-day intensive classes.
Have you always painted watercolor?
It’s always been watercolor. I’ve never done anything but watercolor. I love that it dries fast, + that you can paint multiple layers. It’s also compact and small — not very messy. But, it’s a hard medium. And horses are also hard to paint. So you have a hard medium and a hard subject, but I’ve always liked challenging myself.
Have you always painted horses?
In the beginning, no. But it’s been a lot of horses since I moved to Lexington. I don’t ride + I don’t gamble either, but I think the horses are just beautiful. And they’re literally everywhere here. When I drive my kids to school, we see them in the mornings. We always look for the moms and the new babies now that it’s spring.
What would you say to someone who is interested in learning a new creative skill?
If it’s something you love or are interested in, it’s always worth trying. If you practice enough, I really think you can do anything.
How did you become the official artist of this year’s Kentucky Derby?
So, it’s funny. In the winter of 2021, I was wondering if I should even continue with my painting. We were in the middle of Covid, all my kids were home, and life was just crazy. But then, Churchill Downs actually reached out to me. They said that they wanted me to submit some of my images for the Derby program.
Have you ever had any other jobs this high profile?
No. Never. Not even close. Finding out was both exciting + overwhelming at the same time. But I knew this was the opportunity I needed to challenge myself.
How do you balance being the official artist of the Derby + a mom?
Grandparents + babysitters. But there is a balance you have to find between working hard and being present with your kids.
What are your responsibilities as this year’s Derby artist?
I had to create two paintings that were each two feet by three feet, larger than any painting I’ve ever done. It was a learning process for sure. But now the hard part is over, and I am doing the signings and events part of the job.
How will the Derby use your artwork?
My two paintings will be featured on all kinds of marketing material — t-shirts, koozies, shot glasses, all that fun stuff. It’s pretty cool to see. I recently walked into the Hamburg Costco and saw that they were selling t-shirts and sweaters with my paintings on them.
Where does the official artist of the Kentucky Derby shop for her Derby clothes here in Lexington?
I think some of the best places for dresses are AJ’s Casuals Boutique + Bella Rose. I also follow this woman on Instagram who makes amazing hats. Her name is Finchy Baby Hats. For my husband, I got his Derby suit at Mac & Clay.
What is the inspiration for the horses you paint?
I love the history of old race horses and jockeys. I’d love to eventually paint all 148 Derby winners, but I think I’ve only done 12 at this point. I like to think my paintings are a modern interpretation of horse racing history. I’ve gone to the Keeneland Library for inspiration + I also follow this Instagram account called This Day in Horse Racing.
Where would you suggest Lexingtonians go to explore galleries + artwork here in Lexington?
Cross Gate Gallery has a ton of beautiful equestrian art. I actually went there for inspiration before i took on the Derby job.
What are your career goals after the Kentucky Derby?
I would like to become more involved with the Lexington Art League, and I have always wanted to paint a Horse Mania horse for LexArts. Also, I’d love to be the official artist for the Woodford Reserve Kentucky Derby Bottle. That’s a dream of mine.
What are your Keeneland Must-dos?
I never go to Keeneland without getting the bread pudding. My husband actually tries to recreate the Keeneland bread pudding recipe every year on Derby. Also, I love a Bloody Mary at Keeneland. On Derby day it’s mint juleps, but at Keeneland it’s Bloody Marys.
What would Derby day look like if you weren’t this year’s official artist?
Our Derby days are usually spent hosting or at friends’ houses. We like to invite all of our friends from out-of-state + give them a taste of Kentucky — mint juleps, hot browns, and bread pudding. People that aren’t from Kentucky just don’t understand how special it is.
Where do you and your family like to eat, drink + play here in Lexington?
If it’s date night, me and my husband like Frank and Dino’s. For family outings with the kids, we love the Distillery District. You can’t go wrong with pizza and ice cream. But also, we love that spot on New Circle Road called Farm Market. Sometimes we just order a bunch of tamales from there and hang out at the house.
If you’d like the opportunity to get to know Aimee for yourself, she’ll actually be signing Derby posters this weekend at the Keeneland Spring Meet. Aimee’s signings will take place on both Friday + Saturday from 12-5 p.m. in the paddock area, just past the gift shop.
