Sculpting the Wind; Alexa King and the Making of the Barbaro Memorial
Monday, April 26, 2010
In 2006, the story of the injured Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro was everywhere. After breaking his right hind ankle above and below the joint in the Preakness Stakes, his battle to live was a top story on the national news. Because of this fight, Barbaro developed a huge following across the world. Unfortunately in January of 2007, he lost his battle for life and was humanely euthanized after developing a severe case of laminitis in all four of his hooves. While his initial leg injury had healed, this incurable disease had taken his life in an instant.
After his death, Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky was chosen to be his final resting place so that his adoring fans would be able to easily visit. An exceptional artist would be needed to create a unique and lasting memorial. Barbaro’s owners chose the noted sculptor Alexa King.
Alexa’s early years were spent growing up in Indiana --Muncie and Edinburgh, to be specific. This is where she fueled her equine passions, and honed her artistic skills. Her first introduction to sculpture occurred during her study at Ball State University.
Race For Education and National Turf Writer’s Association 2008 Journalism Scholarship recipient, Allison Pareis, received a grant from WIPB-TV/Ball State University to produce a documentary about Alexa King and her journey through creating one of the most widely-recognized and respected equine memorials.
The Premier of Sculpting the Wind and a cocktail reception will be held on Wednesday, April 28, 2010 in the Pollard Gallery at the Kentucky Derby Museum.
Cocktails 6:00 PM – Film 6:45PM (running time is approximately 28 minutes)
Suggested donation $50.00. For more informaiton call 859-252-8648
Ms. Pareis has requested that all proceeds from the premier benefit future journalism scholarships.