Barrels of Heart, an arts-based bourbon charity, will launch an exhibit at the Frazier History Museum, located in Louisville, Ky., that features 20 custom bourbon barrels. The exhibit opens Thursday, Feb. 2.

Open to the public through March 30, Barrels of Heart will occupy space on the third floor of the museum, with barrel art designed by local artists of varying ages, ethnicities, and levels of experience. Entry to the exhibition will be available with any general admission ticket to the museum.

The mission of Bourbon with Heart is to leverage the influence and popularity of Kentucky’s most iconic spirit — Bourbon — to raise funds, awareness, and education around Louisville’s art community. The organization is committed to providing better access and delivering first-class arts experiences to every person in Kentucky, regardless of age, race, class, gender, or ability.

“Art is like a good glass of Bourbon: it brings people together and encourages self-expression,” Bourbon with Heart founder Morgan Hancock said in a news release. Hancock is also the curator of Barrels of Heart.

“I started Barrels of Heart with the goal of creating a space for local artists to showcase their work, particularly those artists who may not always have that opportunity,” he said. “Our artists come from all walks of life, perspectives, and experiences—but the one thing they have in common is a love for Kentucky. And each one has poured that love into their piece.”

Twenty local artists were provided a barrel and a supply budget to bring their art to life. Exhibition attendees will vote on their favorite barrel design and the winning artist will be awarded a cash prize along with a donation to a charity of their choice. The remaining proceeds will be donated to area nonprofits.

Each barrel in the exhibition is also sponsored by local companies and Bourbon brands who are committed to supporting Bourbon with Heart and Louisville’s art community. Sponsors include Buzzard’s Roost Sipping Whiskeys, Mercedes-Benz of Louisville, Heaven’s Door Whiskey, Humana, Old Louisville Whiskey Co., Barrell Craft Spirits, BIGGBY Coffee, CaskX, and many others.

The 20 barrels featured are installed throughout The Spirit of Kentucky, a permanent exhibition also located on the third floor of the Frazier. Opened in 2018, The Spirit of Kentucky highlights the history, craft, and culture of Bourbon whiskey, America’s native spirit. 

Learn more about the artists at bourbonwithheart.org.