CMC Steamboat Seeks Artist for Interior Mural

College partners with local arts group to transform stairwell with 'Joy in the Journey' theme.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 6:15pm

Colorado Mountain College's Steamboat Springs campus is seeking an artist to create a large-scale mural inside the main stairwell, with an honorarium of up to $8,000 for the selected proposal. The project, done in partnership with Steamboat Creates, aims to transform the space connecting social and classroom areas into an inspiring, reflective area.

Why it matters

The mural project is part of the college's efforts to enhance the campus experience and promote creativity among students. The 'Joy in the Journey' theme aligns with the campus labyrinth built in the 1990s to encourage contemplative walking, reflecting CMC's mission to foster personal growth.

The details

Artists are invited to interpret the 'Joy in the Journey' theme through contemporary or abstract designs exploring ideas of movement, growth and discovery. Suggested motifs include trails, rivers and topographic lines that expand beyond realism. The mural will be installed in the stairwell connecting social and classroom spaces.

  • Applications are due by February 20, 2026.
  • The selected artist will have from March 6-15, 2026 to install the mural.

The players

Colorado Mountain College

A public college system with multiple campuses across Colorado, including the Steamboat Springs location.

Steamboat Creates

A local arts organization partnering with CMC on the mural project.

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What’s next

The selected artist will have from March 6-15, 2026 to install the mural on the Steamboat Springs campus.

The takeaway

This mural project reflects Colorado Mountain College's commitment to fostering creativity and personal growth among its students, transforming a functional campus space into an inspiring, reflective area that aligns with the college's mission.