The new StreetScapes Art Park in Cortez is inviting artists and residents to take part in a hands-on creative experience, as it launches its first outdoor mural contest designed to make art more visible, accessible and connected to daily life.
The park, at 610 North Broadway, is accepting submissions for its inaugural art contest, which will showcase original works by local artists in an outdoor gallery visible from one of the city’s main corridors.
The park features large V-shaped structures designed to serve as both a gallery and a creative space. Selected contest entries will be granted use of the exterior panels of the installations, which face Broadway.
Each participating artist will receive a horizontal panel measuring 3.5 by 7.5 feet. Artists must submit a proof of concept by Thursday, May 21, and there is no theme for the first contest. A selection committee will assign panels to chosen participants, who will have from June 1 to June 30 to complete their work. Winners will be announced at July’s Third Thursday event.
“This is a win-win for everyone,” said Bill Teetzel, a founding member of the Rotary project. “We’re creating a space where artists can practice, grow and be seen, while the community and visitors get to experience something unique and inspiring. At the same time, we’re building a platform that can generate real economic opportunity for local creatives.”
Prizes include $1,500 for first place and $500 for second place, with additional prizes to be announced. All selected panels will remain on public display and be available for purchase after the contest. Artists retain all rights to their work and may sell, keep or donate their panels. Those who remove a panel must pay a $75 replacement fee, which is waived for donations back to the park.
The exterior mural contest runs alongside an open-paint area inside the structures, where artists and community members of all ages and skill levels are encouraged to bring their own supplies and create on available surfaces daily from morning to night.
The project, developed by the Rotary Club of Dolores with support from the LOR Foundation and Virga Foundation, aims to provide professional opportunities for artists while boosting cultural and economic activity in Cortez, the Rotary Club said. Artists may also choose to have their contact information listed on the park’s website to support commissions or sales.
Additional installations are planned for future sites as part of a broader effort to expand public art access across the county.
Full contest rules and submission details are available at www.streetscapesartpark.com.
