Julie Verhoeven Blanket for Investec Derby
INVESTEC DERBY REVEALS LUXURY CASHMERE BLANKET BY ARTIST AND ILLUSTRATOR JULIE VERHOEVEN
World-renowned artist & illustrator Julie Verhoeven has completed the first ever Investec Derby Festival print. Incorporating the many elements which have established the event as the highlight of Britain’s sporting & social calendar, the intricate design has been transformed into a luxury picnic blanket, now available to buy via Scottish retailer ROAM. The limited edition 100% cashmere blankets retail at £700 and celebrate the world famous horseracing occasion, expected to attract over 125,000 people on Friday 31 May and Saturday 1 June 2013.
Julie, who has worked with the likes of Louis Vuitton, Mulberry and Versace commented, “The event is known and loved by many so I wanted to create a piece which truly reflects the different aspects of the Derby. The print contains a series of individual images, each with their own significance that together envelop the festival as a whole. The print is designed to reflect the unique aspects of the two days of racing, no matter where you sit on the blanket. I have thoroughly enjoyed the challenge of creating the print and I am now looking forward to soaking up the atmosphere with the crowds on Investec Derby Day!”
The finished print includes illustrations of fashion, millinery, the horses, the crowds, the hill, Her Majesty the Queen and the Investec Derby trophy. Julie has also included a commemoration of the 100 year anniversary of the death of Suffragette Emily Davison.
Raymond Van Niekerk, Investec commented, “This is the first time in Derby history that we have commissioned an Artist to create an Investec Derby print and the finished piece is a dynamic and creative representation of a festival that has established itself as a highlight of Britain’s social and racing calendar. I look forward to spotting a few of these cashmere blankets at the festival which, as always, should be a fantastic two days full of glamour, adrenalin and excitement!”
Rupert Trevelyan, Regional Director – London, Jockey Club Racecourses added, “Julie has delivered a unique design which represents all aspects of the iconic event through its many different faces – this is not just a spectacular racing event, the festival is famed for its style, atmosphere and entertainment and we are thoroughly looking forward to the Investec Derby Festival 2013!”
Tickets to the Investec Derby Festival until are priced at £45 until April and £50 from May. For further information and to book tickets please visit www.epsomdowns.co.uk or call Epsom Downs Racecourse on 0844 579 3004.