Central Indiana artists each year are invited to capture the essence of “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing” through the Welcome Race Fans program, a collaboration between the Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS) and the Indianapolis Arts Council. For 2025, five artists have been selected to create original works that embody the Hoosier hospitality welcoming visitors to Indianapolis during the iconic Month of May. Among them is Cassie Mitchell ’26, a Marian University student and former 2024 500 Festival Princess, who makes history as both the youngest artist chosen and the first with this unique dual distinction. Michell, who is double majoring in Graphic design and Communication expressed her excitement about being selected.
“I saw the opportunity to apply in October 2024 and chose to apply because I still had a connection with the Indy 500, so when I received the email that I had been selected as one of the chosen artists, it felt like a full circle moment,’ she said. Her passion for art and community service shines through her work as she aims to inspire younger generations and support initiatives that make a difference.
The Welcome Race Fans program began in 2016 to showcase how May transforms Indianapolis both on and off the track. Selected from dozens of applicants, this year’s artists including Mitchell and four others created pieces that highlight the intersection of art and motorsports. For the first time in the program’s history, both two-and three-dimensional artworks such as sculptures and carvings, were considered. Those pieces will be displayed throughout Indianapolis starting April 29. IMS President J. Douglas Boles emphasized the significance of the initiative: “The Welcome Race Fans art is one of the first things thousands of visitors see when they come to the city of Indianapolis and IMS for the Month of May. This Hoosier hospitality is just one of the reasons the Month of May is so special to so many.”
Michell reflected on her role in the celebrated tradition: “It’s an honor to represent the 500 Race for another year but on a whole different level. I’m so excited to share the artwork that I made along with the other artists as well.” Mitchell’s selection not only highlights her artistic talent but also underscores her dedication to fostering creativity within her community.