DEAR ART AND BOURBON LOVERS, Welcome to the Speed Art Museum’s 4th annual “Art of Bourbon,” an event that has quickly become the premier nonprofit bourbon auction in the nation. The Art of Bourbon uses one of Kentucky’s greatest inventions to support the Speed, Kentucky’s flag-ship art museum and its mission to invite everyone to celebrate art – forever! This event would not be possible without the generosity of Kentucky’s very finest distillers, nearly all of whom have offered entire barrels, rare bottles, experiences, and even an original artwork by Brook White for us to auction off tonight. And many individual collectors have dug deep into their cellars for hard-to-find “dusties” so we can continue our important work of bringing art and the creative process to all people. We look forward to raising a glass to these unique treasures tonight! Furthermore, successful bidders won’t just win something rare and valuable; they will be supporting the mission of the Speed, our exquisite collections, exhibitions, cinema offerings, programs, arts education and invaluable community service. Come back to the Speed starting October 8th to enjoy the unparalleled, major exhibition put on by the Speed, Supernatural America: The Paranormal in American Art. This exhibition spans two floors with over 200 objects and examines artworks that have shaped our collective imagination of the supernatural and paranormal. Touring to two other prominent museums in the Unites States, the works in the show powerfully illustrate how artists across time, race and belief systems have attempted to depict the inexplicable. Supernatural America captures what is beyond words and rational thought and evolves around the mysteries, terrors, and dreams of the indescribable. We will all find ourselves in this exhibition and learn more about who we are. And isn’t it the ultimate role of art to make us more aware of ourselves and the world we live in? We’re extremely grateful to our Lead Sponsor: The Glenview Trust Company, a multi-generational wealth advisor. Other generous sponsors include Kaplan Johnson Abate & Bird, Land Rover Louisville, and Prestige AV and Creative Services. I would also like to call special attention to two of our Board of Trustee members who made significant contributions to the auction this year: Tom O’Grady for including a 15-year-old bottle of Van Winkle Family Reserve and Kaveh Zamanian for including a Rabbit Hole single barrel selection – Thank You! Thank you all for making my first major fundraising event as brand-new director of the Speed such a resounding success! I am grateful for you, your passion and support. Cheers, Raphaela Platow Museum Director
3
