Open Studio: ’26 Derby Festival poster artist Shae Goodlett talks inspiration, 'great honor' to capture the spirit of Louisville

By Tom Musgrave

Published February 20, 2026 at 10:05 AM EST

Ways To Subscribe

Apple

University of Kentucky School of Art and Visual Studies lecturer and Louisville native, Shae Goodlett has been named the artist for the official 2026 Kentucky Derby Festival poster. Goodlett’s design, which was unveiled earlier this month, will be featured on the festival’s 2026 official merchandise line, including clothing, accessories, glassware and mugs. Host Tom Musgrave talks with Goodlett about the inspiration, journey and destination for his art.

Show links:

https://uknow.uky.edu/professional-news/art-and-digital-media-design-faculty-selected-26-derby-festival-poster-artist

Open Studio

Tom Musgrave

Tom Musgrave is a senior public relations writer for the University of Kentucky and editor of the daily campuswide electronic newsletter UKNow. Prior to joining the UK staff, Tom spent nine years as the Kentucky Arts Council’s communications director. In 2018 he created the arts council’s monthly podcast, Kentucky ArtsCast, serving as primary host and executive producer. Tom’s first job in state government was working for Virginia Moore at the Kentucky Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing.

See stories by Tom Musgrave