Steamboat Creates is partnering with CMC Steamboat with a call for artists to create a mural at the campus's central Academic Building.
Colorado Mountain College and Steamboat Creates issue call for artists for $8,000 stairwell mural project
STEAMBOAT SPRINGS — Colorado Mountain College, in partnership with Steamboat Creates, is announcing a call for artists for a major interior stairwell mural at the CMC Steamboat Springs campus. The selected artist will receive an honorarium of up to $8,000 to design and install a large-scale mural inspired by the theme “Joy in the Journey.”
The mural will transform a highly visible stairwell connecting the campus’s third-floor social spaces to second-floor classrooms into a place of reflection, creativity and inspiration for students, faculty and visitors. Artists are encouraged to submit contemporary, abstract designs that explore movement, growth and discovery.
The project draws inspiration from a campus labyrinth constructed in the early 1990s by CMC professors to promote contemplative walking. The curatorial committee seeks to honor this legacy through visually compelling artwork that incorporates graphic elements such as pathways, trails, rivers, labyrinths and topographic forms.
The opportunity is open to established and emerging artists with experience in mural or large-scale installations. Up to three design concepts may be submitted. Designs should move beyond realism and embrace abstract, avant-garde or contemporary graphic styles.
The mural will serve CMC students, faculty, staff and the broader community, reinforcing the campus’s commitment to creativity, innovation and placemaking.
Colorado Mountain College inspires, challenges and prepares students to meaningfully impact Colorado’s Western Slope and beyond. Steamboat Creates is a nonprofit arts organization operating out of the historic Depot Art Center dedicated to nurturing the arts so creativity flourishes in Routt County.
Call for artists: 'Joy in the Journey' art installation
Artist honorarium: Up to $8,000 (determined based on detail, experience and inclusive of all materials and installation)
Location: Colorado Mountain College, Steamboat Springs campus
Submission deadline: Feb. 20, 2026
Installation window: March 6-15, 2026
Submit admissions to Steamboat Creates CMC Stairwell Mural Project