Syracuse Sporthorse Tournament Announces First Annual I Love NY Horses Art Show

Syracuse, NY -- Recognizing the growth and importance of the equine industry and presence in the Central New York corridor, the Syracuse Invitational Sporthorse Tournament Featuring the 126th National Horse Show is underwriting the first Annual I Love NY Horses Art Show.

Entries for the juried show will represent all ages from kindergarten to an open division and will be on exhibition during the Syracuse Invitational Sporthorse Tournament at the Oncenter, October 27 - 31, 2009.

"What better way to celebrate our love for horses and how they continue to be such an integral part of the American fabric," said Olympic Gold Medalist and Cazenovia resident Beezie Madden. "This art show will involve students and adults of all ages, furthering the goal of the Invitational to enhance development of equestrian sports and the positive impacts of our industry locally."

"The equine industry is an important part of the Central New York economy," commented Senator David Valesky (D, 49th District). "I am pleased to be involved in this art show to celebrate the wide range of benefits all things equestrian bring to our region."

Senator Valesky and Ms. Madden will serve as honorary judges along with representation from the Everson Museum of Art in Syracuse, Cazenovia College and the Equine industry, yet to be named.

Supported by both the Everson and Cazenovia College, the first annual show will be a juried exhibition in a wide range of media that focuses on horses and how society interacts with them. Subject matter can be a literal or abstract approach to this idea. Through the exhibition all of the partners supporting it seek to expand the general knowledge and appreciation of horses and their importance to New York State.

"The Everson is pleased to participate in this first of its kind exhibition and support the Syracuse Invitational Sporthorse Tournament," said Everson Director, Steven Kern. "We are always excited to partner with neighboring events and organizations, and the I Love NY Horses Art Show is yet another way to promote the rich artistic talent of our region."

"Cazenovia College proudly supports the I Love NY Horses Art Show," said Cazenovia College Director of Communications Wayne Westervelt. "Our ongoing role with the Syracuse Invitational Sporthorse Tournament, combined with academic programs in Equine, Art and Design, and Education, position the College to assist in further promoting the horse and equine industry through art." Awards categories include kindergarten through 3rd grade, 4th and 6th grades, 7th through 9th grades, 10th through 12th grades, college and an open division. All media is invited, including photography, sculpture, mixed media and fine art. First place winners will be chosen in each category as well as a "Best of Show" and honorable mention.

Entry fees are $5 per submission, and each artist may submit twice. Deadline for submission is October 2, 2009 and announcement of winners will be made at the Oncenter's Lower Atrium, October 29th, 6 p.m.

For more information on exhibition specifics, drop off and retrieval of materials visit www.syracuseinvitational.com or contact Madison Ross at maross@cazenovia.edu