In March 1957, Elvis Presley purchased Graceland as his home. Fifty years later, Graceland is the destination for Elvis fans. As part of the celebration of Graceland, Thomas Kinkade has painted "Graceland, 50th Anniversary." The painting will be unveiled on Saturday, March 24, 2007 at a special event in Graceland. Thomas Kinkade and Priscilla Presley will be present at the festivities.
Thomas Kinkade was selected to create a commemorative painting of Graceland in celebration of Elvis Presley's purchase of the historic home 50 years ago and to celebrate the 25 years that Graceland has been open to the public. The artist explained: "It is the personal connection that people feel to Elvis and the joy his music brings that keep people coming to Graceland."
In addition, Thomas Kinkade will be appearing at the Gibson Beale Street Showcase during the evening of March 24, 2007. During the event, collectors will be able to view Thomas Kinkade's original painting and listen to the artist as he shares his inspiration behind the painting, and have the opportunity to have their limited edition canvases purchased at the event signed. Priscilla Presley will also be in attendance.
During the event at the Gibson Showcase, a Limited Edition canvas with a hand-drawn detailed sketch by Mr. Kinkade will be auctioned and the proceeds will be given to Presley Place.
Limited edition canvases of the painting, as well as other Thomas Kinkade images, will be available for purchase and will be signed by Thomas Kinkade during the event.