Large-Scale Mural Artist Opportunity at CMC

Colorado Mountain College in Steamboat Springs is seeking an artist to create a large-scale mural inside the main stairwell of the Steamboat Springs campus's Academic Building. This project is created in partnership with Steamboat Creates and aims to transform the stairwell connecting social and classroom spaces into an area that inspires reflection and creativity.

Artists are invited to interpret the theme "Joy in the Journey" through contemporary or abstract designs exploring ideas of movement, growth, and discovery. The mural concept draws inspiration from the campus labyrinth built in the early 1990s to encourage contemplative walking. The curatorial committee suggests motifs such as trails, rivers, and topographic lines that expand beyond realism.

The opportunity is open to both emerging and established artists with experience in large-scale or mural work. Selected applicants may submit up to three design concepts for consideration. The honorarium will be up to $8,000 and will be determined based on design detail, artist experience, and material costs.

The application deadline is February 20, 2026. The selected artist will have from March 6-15, 2026 to install the completed mural. This is an excellent opportunity for artists looking to create impactful public art while being compensated fairly for their work.