Central Bank Center and Rupp Arena in Lexington launch search for artist to create “landmark” artwork

Central Bank Center and Rupp Arena in downtown Lexington have launched a search for an artist to create a landmark artwork intended to give the venues a “new look,” according to a report from LEX18 published Monday, Aug. 18, 2026.

LEX18 reports that the call is meant to identify an artist whose work will become a prominent visual feature associated with the two venues that host events in the Lexington area, with the artwork described as intended to be large-scale and defining.

The announcement positions the project as more than routine decoration, describing the goal as producing a “landmark” piece that can serve as a recognizable element of the venues’ public-facing identity for visitors, event attendees, and the broader community.

Central Bank Center and Rupp Arena are located in downtown Lexington, and the artwork search is tied to efforts to update the look of the facilities, LEX18 said. The report does not specify in the available package what themes or styles the organizations are prioritizing.

LEX18 also indicates that the search includes an application or entry process for artists interested in being considered, but the published package does not provide additional details such as eligibility requirements, deadlines, or award terms.

The organizations’ next step, following the launch of the search, is the review and selection phase once submissions are received, after which a chosen artist would be expected to move into design and production planning for the artwork.