Two students sit on grass and watercolor paint a scene with their canvases on their laps.
Art & Design

Community Opportunities

Share your artistic capabilities through community opportunities.

Bring your creativity to life with hands-on, real-world art experiences. From commissioned murals to community branding projects—and even painting in the stunning outdoors—Western’s Art & Design program helps you turn your vision into impact.

A student sits on grass and watercolor paints a scene with a barn and fall colors behind her.

Create and Collaborate Through Community Art Projects

As part of Western’s Art & Design program, students go beyond the classroom and into the community, working on paid commissions, branding projects, and large-scale public murals that build both portfolios and professional confidence. One of the program’s most beloved traditions is plein-air painting at the red barn on Ohio Creek Road, where students immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Gunnison Valley. Whether you’re designing for clients or painting for passion, Western gives you the tools, opportunities, and space to grow as an artist and storyteller.

Abbie Showman - artist of Mountaineer Marketplace Mural stands in front of her work

Bring Art to Life in the Community

Students in the Art & Design program have worked on a variety of community projects, from designing logos and branding to creating large-scale murals. These experiences provide real-world opportunities to apply design principles, work with clients, see projects through from concept to completion, and earn real income along the way.

Develop Collaboration and Leadership Skills

Many community projects involve teamwork, giving you the chance to collaborate with peers, faculty, and local organizations. Whether designing public art or contributing to branding efforts, you’ll gain experience in project management, problem-solving, and creative decision-making—essential skills for a successful career in the arts.

A small art class stands on grass around professor Tina Butterfield as she explains a watercolor painting technique.

Experience the Tradition of Plein-Air Painting

One of the most cherished experiences in the program is the annual plein-air painting at the iconic red barn on Ohio Creek Road. This tradition allows students to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Gunnison Valley, practice their observational painting skills, connect with the local landscape—and sometimes even sell their work for a commission.

Real-World Roles

Internships are a key part of the Art & Design experience at Western, giving students the chance to apply their skills in real-world settings while building valuable connections and creative confidence. Whether staying local or exploring national opportunities, students gain exposure to a range of professional environments.

  • Intern with local nonprofits, fine artists, the Gunnison Arts Center, or Oh Be Joyful! gallery in Crested Butte.

  • Graphic Design students have worked with companies like ROMP to gain industry-specific experience.

  • Explore regional opportunities, such as the A.R. Mitchell Museum in Trinidad.

  • Attend national workshops and conferences through organizations like NCECA—often with funding support from the program.

Mary Donohue take photographs of Hartman rocks

Want to be part of the story?

At Western, students dive into hands-on learning that’s practical, impactful, and built for the real world. Check out the different schools and departments to get involved. 

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