Welcome Race Fans 2027 Seeks Artists - Indy Arts Council

Overview

Welcome Race Fans 2027 seeks five central Indiana artists to create original artworks celebrating the theme "This is May" in connection with the 111th Running of the Indianapolis 500. This is the 11th anniversary of the Welcome Race Fans program, which commissions artworks from central Indiana artists to highlight the citywide celebration of motorsports and racing culture.

Award

• $3,000 per artist total
• $2,500 commission for original artwork
• $500 licensing stipend

Key Dates

• Submission deadline: Sunday, October 18, 2026, 11:59 p.m. EST
• Exhibition: April–June 2027

Eligibility

• 18 years of age or older at time of application
• Work as a professional artist or artist team
• Reside in or have very strong ties to central Indiana (Marion, Hendricks, Boone, Hamilton, Morgan, Johnson, Shelby, Madison, and Hancock counties)
• Be willing to meet all contractual obligations and adhere to a strict timeline
• Artists from previous rounds of Welcome Race Fans are eligible but preference given to new applicants

Media & Size

• 2-dimensional artworks: horizontal 2:3 ratio with 24" x 18" minimum and 24" x 36" maximum; framing should not increase overall size by more than 1.5"; 25 lbs or less
• 3-dimensional artworks: no more than 24" x 24" x 24" (minimum 12" x 12" x 12"), 25 lbs or less, free-standing on pedestal or table without stands or risers
• Racing imagery is not required but artwork should reflect the spirit of the Indy 500 racing season and capture the theme of "This is May"
• The words "Welcome Race Fans" or "This is May" may appear in the artwork
• DO NOT SUBMIT PROPOSED DESIGNS WITH YOUR APPLICATION

Program Details