July 12, 2001

“Wildcat Madness,” a statewide art campaign sponsored by the University of Kentucky Basketball Museum, has unveiled the sculpture that will be decorated by selected artists. The sculpture, which is nearly three feet long, is modeled after “Blue,” UK’s live mascot. The sculpture is on display in the foyer of the UK Basketball Museum located in the Lexington Civic Center.

Only 210 sculptures will be produced and displayed across the Bluegrass State and the deadline for artists’ submissions is May 15. Application packages can be obtained from Shumacher’s Art Supplies in Lexington, Kennedy Book Store on the UK campus, the UK Basketball Museum, or by calling 800-269-1953 or 859-225-5670.

Sculpture designs will be selected on May 18. The selected artists will be paid $1,000 commission, honored at a recognition event next month and invited to kickoff activities for “Wildcat Madness” prior to the UK-Louisville football game Sept. 1.

Sponsorships for each Wildcat sculpture are available for $2,500 and the sponsors will approve the design for their respective sculpture. To become a sponsor, contact the UK Basketball Museum at the numbers above.