Co-Op Tower Mural Artist Commission
Fruita seeks artists to repaint iconic Co-Op Tower landmark. $8,000 commission funded by lodging tax. Proposals due April 6.
The City of Fruita, Colorado is seeking talented artists to repaint the Fruita Co-Op Tower, a prominent local landmark visible from Interstate 70. This iconic structure serves as a welcoming symbol for both residents and travelers, recognized as a sign of arrival in Colorado for highway visitors.
The Co-Op Tower has been a significant part of the community's identity for years, appearing on local apparel, merchandise, stickers, and designs throughout the town. However, the current artwork has begun to fade after approximately 10 years, making this an ideal time for a fresh artistic interpretation.
Selected artists will receive $8,000 compensation for this project. The commission is funded through the city's lodging tax, which is collected from local hotels and short-term rentals. This funding demonstrates the city's commitment to maintaining this important community landmark.
The project requires two distinct designs: one side of the tower should reflect Fruita's tourism identity, while the other should highlight the town's community, culture, and values. Community members have suggested various themes including local recreation, agricultural heritage, Southwest motifs, bike riders, dinosaurs, the river, mountains, and desert imagery.
City officials emphasize the tower's significance to residents and visitors alike. As noted by community members, the tower is often the first thing people recognize when entering Fruita, serving as a unique identifier that distinguishes the town from the surrounding landscape.
Proposals must be submitted by April 6, with final artwork scheduled for completion by August 3 of the current year. This timeline allows selected artists adequate time to develop and execute their vision for this highly visible community landmark.