The City of Grand Junction and the Grand Junction Commission on Arts and Culture are excited to announce the return of aRT (Art on the Riverfront Trail) for 2026. Artists are invited to compete for public art commissions to create murals at designated underpasses along the Riverfront Trail.
The aRT program transforms underpasses into vibrant works of public art that enhance the experience of trail users while showcasing the creativity of the Grand Valley’s artistic community. Because murals are refreshed every two years, the program continually introduces new artwork and perspectives to the trail. Through aRT, the City aims to support local artists, foster emerging talent, and create a more colorful and welcoming environment for residents and visitors alike.
The deadline to submit proposals is Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at 5 p.m. Selected artists will complete their murals between August 29 and September 30, 2026. Detailed application and submission information is available at gjcity.org/arts.
The aRT program is led by the Grand Junction Commission on Arts and Culture and the Riverfront Commission in partnership with a valley-wide coalition that includes the Grand Junction Police Department, Colorado Department of Transportation, Mesa County Sheriff’s Office, Mesa County Public Health, Super Rad Art Jam, the Urban Trails Committee, Mesa County, the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, the City of Grand Junction’s Public Works, Community Development, and Parks and Recreation departments.
Six locations along the Riverfront Trail, encompassing nine paintable mural sites, have been identified for this year’s program. Proposed mural designs for the Redlands Parkway Underpass, Lower No Thoroughfare Underpass, Highway 340 Riverside Underpass, Highway 50/5th Street Bridge Underpass, Monument Road and D Road Underpass, and the Ridges Boulevard Bridge near Duck Pond Park will undergo a review and vetting process.
Artists are encouraged to submit an application, examples of similar previous work, and a detailed color rendering of their proposed design. Each selected artist will receive a $1,000 commission per mural. Applications will be accepted beginning June 29, 2026, with submissions due by August 12, 2026, at 5 p.m. Accepted artists agree to complete their assigned mural between August 29 and September 30, 2026.
Since its inception, aRT has contributed to tourism and economic development by creating a more engaging and attractive experience along the Riverfront Trail. The program helps draw visitors to the area, supports surrounding businesses, reduces vandalism, and continues to expand Grand Junction’s public art landscape.
The Grand Junction Commission on Arts and Culture is dedicated to fostering a community where arts and culture can thrive and grow. For information about serving on the Commission or other City boards and commissions, email [email protected] or call 970-244-1509.
For more information about the aRT program, visit gjcity.org/arts or contact Grand Junction Parks and Recreation at 970-254-3866.