New Year, New Pier

Kentucky Legend, the maker of America’s number one-selling boneless ham and sliced turkey, has commissioned Owensboro-native and world-renowned artist Aaron Kizer to give the Kentucky Legend^® Pier a major facelift. After four weeks of on-again, off-again work due to inclement weather, Kizer finished the massive artwork in December 2019.

Located just outside the Owensboro Convention Center, the Kentucky Legend Pier overlooks the scenic Ohio River and is a popular venue for weddings, receptions, live music performances and other events.

Using the pier’s surface as his canvas, Kizer will spend six to ten days, depending on the weather, to create an original artwork that will measure more than 2,000 square feet—roughly equal to the floor plan of of an average-sized American house. Kizer has previously created large-scale paintings for the Univeristy of Kentucky, Jim Beam, Nike and N.A.S.A.

“We’re thrilled to donate this artwork to the city of Owensboro,” says Brooklyn Maple, Brand Director for Kentucky Legend. “This project has been very exciting, and we’re grateful to the Owensboro Convention Center and Aaron Kizer for this opportunity to do something out of the ordinary for Kentucky Legend.”

“We absolutely love our partnership with Kentucky Legend these past few years with both the Kentucky Legend Café and the Kentucky Legend Pier. We look forward to working with them on more creative activations and events in the future.” says Laura Alexander, General Manager of the Owensboro Convention Center.

Kizer’s painting, which will replace the Kentucky Legend logo previously displayed on the pier, will feature his trademark street-art style with bold color choices and dynamic brushstrokes.

“I was born and raised in Owensboro. I find inspiration, joy and love here. I’m honored and proud that Kentucky Legend and the city has given me an opportunity for my work to become a part of Owensboro. My goal is to attempt to make the city, Kentucky Legend and the people of Owensboro proud of what they have played such a huge role in cultivating.” says Aaron Kizer.