The Art on the Riverfront Trail (aRT) program is back in 2022. This program is a biannual mural program aimed at improving the artistic experience for users of the trail.
aRT is spearheaded by the Grand Junction Commission on Arts and Culture and the Riverfront Commission with a valley-wide coalition of partners including the Grand Junction Police Department, Public Works, Community Development, Parks and Recreation Departments, the Colorado Department of Transportation, Mesa County Sheriff’s Office, Mesa County Health Department, Super Rad Art Jam, Urban Trails Committee, and the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board.
The aRT program is designed to transform underpasses along the Riverfront Trail into vibrant and colorful artistic expressions that enhance the trail users’ experience. aRT is a fluid process with murals changing annually, bringing new and fresh designs to the Riverfront Trail. Through aRT, we will expand our rich artistic community by providing spaces to nurture budding artists and create a more vibrant environment.
Five areas along the Riverfront Trail with a combined total of twelve paintable locations have been identified for murals. Sites that will be subject to a vetting process are:
- Redlands Parkway Underpass
- Lower No Thoroughfare Underpass
- Highway 340 – Riverside Underpass
- Highway 50 – 5th St. Bridge Underpass
The stipend to each chosen artist for their mural and supplies is $1,000. The application can be found online at www.gjcity.org/169/Call-for-Artists. The aRT committee has chosen September 17th, 2022, as the date to officially begin the program and commence painting at each location.
aRT is expected to positively impact tourism and economic development by creating a more desirable experience along the Riverfront Trail. Creating a lively environment draws people to the area and positively impacts the surrounding businesses.
For more information, visit the City’s website at www.gjcity.org/169/Call-for-Artists or email Marlene Godsey, Recreation Coordinator, at marleneg@gjcity.org.
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Contact: Isabella Vaz, Communications Specialist | 970-244-1503 or isabellav@gjcity.org