2004 Gallopalooza. A sensation is born.
The first Gallopalooza was a rousing success. Here are a few fun facts about the event.
- The inaugural theme was a tribute to past Kentucky Derby winners
- The entire project netted $744,397
- $469,977 went toward community beautification projects in partnership with Brightside
- $274,420 was given to more than 150 other charities
- More than 1,000 artists received the initial call for entries, which was also publicized in the local media
- More than 300 professional and amateur artists, as well as school groups and youth programs, expressed interest in decorating horses
- Over 400 designs were considered by the Artist Review committee
- Participating artists flocked from Florida, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, New York, Missouri and throughout the Commonwealth
- 223 decorated thoroughbreds, Arabians and Pegasus horses made their way to the streets of Louisville and surrounding counties, including Southern Indiana
- 1970’s pop-culture icon Peter Max was one of the participating artists
- Nearly half of the statues were decorated at the Mellwood Arts & Entertainment Center, which became known as the “Horse Barn”
- Best of Show went to Linda Barnett of Bits & Pieces for “Thunder Gulch.” It was sponsored by the Kentucky Restaurant Association, Louisville Chapter
- The top-selling horse – “War Admiral” by Mari Renn – sold for $16,050. It was sponsored by Allen Corbin.