FRANKFORT, Ky. (April 2, 2026) – Gov. Andy Beshear and Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman joined Kentucky Derby Festival President and CEO Matt Gibson during the Team Kentucky Update for the official unveiling of the 2026 Governor’s Derby Celebration poster designed by artist Alexandrea Pangburn.
“All eyes are on Kentucky during Derby season, and we’re always proud to show the world what makes our commonwealth and this 152-year tradition so special,” said Gov. Beshear. “One way we do that is through the Governor’s Derby poster, and the 2026 version was created by artist and Kentuckian Alex Pangburn. Growing up in horse country herself, Alex understands the significance of this season, and you see that spirit captured in her incredible work. I’m grateful she shared her talents with us by contributing to this great tradition.”
Alexandrea Pangburn is a large-scale muralist and animal realism artist based in Lexington, Kentucky. A Lexington native and a University of Kentucky alumnus, Pangburn focuses on expressing the details of plants, birds and animals to bring light to their recognizable physical traits. She has created large-scale work in multiple states throughout the U.S. including Colorado, North Dakota, Arizona, Ohio, Kentucky, Virginia, Georgia and Florida. This year’s Derby poster, titled “The Governor’s Rose,” is inspired by Pangburn’s upbringing, capturing the teamwork and athleticism of the horse and jockey as they push through the mud to the finish line.
“As someone who grew up in Kentucky and was exposed early on to the Derby culture, I was incredibly inspired by the grit and power of both horse and jockey. These horses and jockeys are athletes that perform in rain or shine, and their teamwork together is what makes the pair so powerful,” said Pangburn. “In my first full year returning to Kentucky as a full-time artist, I'm feeling the strong connection and support from my home state, and I couldn't be more happy to be back. I am so incredibly honored to be the featured artist for the 2026 Governor’s Derby Poster. This project has been a dream come true.”
The public will have the opportunity to purchase the 2026 Governor’s Derby Celebration poster later this month. The Kentucky Derby is the longest-running sporting event in U.S. history and a vital part of Kentucky’s horse racing heritage. Since 1875, the commonwealth has produced “the most exciting two minutes in sports.”
“The arts are at the very heart of Kentucky’s thriving tourism industry, enhancing every experience and bringing our communities together, especially during events like the Kentucky Derby,” said Kentucky Tourism Arts and Heritage Cabinet Secretary Lindy Casebier. “This year, we are delighted to celebrate Alex as our Governor’s Derby Poster artist. Her artistry and creativity are a great addition to this annual tradition.”
The Kentucky Derby Festival orchestrates the commonwealth’s award-winning celebration of more than 70 events leading up to the Kentucky Derby. Louisville artist Shae Goodlett joined Matt Gibson, Kentucky Derby Festival president and CEO, in presenting the 2026 Kentucky Derby Festival official poster to the Governor and First Lady. This year’s poster is the 46th in the Kentucky Derby Festival series and is available for purchase online.
“The Kentucky Derby Festival is a month-long celebration that draws visitors from around the world and serves as a major driver of tourism and economic impact for Kentucky each spring,” said Matt Gibson, Kentucky Derby Festival President and CEO. “The Official Poster is a longtime Festival tradition, and this year’s design by Louisville artist Shae Goodlett showcases the energy and spirit of the season.”
Gibson also presented the official 2026 Gold Pegasus Pin to the Governor, Lt. Governor and First Lady on behalf of the Kentucky Derby Festival.
The 152nd Kentucky Derby will be held on Saturday, May 2, at Churchill Downs in Louisville.
To watch the unveiling ceremony, visit Gov. Beshear’s YouTube page. Click here for photos from today’s Team Kentucky Update.
To learn more about artist Alexandrea Pangburn, visit alexandreapangburn.com.