The heARTS of LYONS Outdoor Arts Collection is a perennial celebration of art and sculpture displayed outdoors throughout the picturesque mountain town of Lyons, Colorado. 

Known as "the hip little town everyone loves" (population 2,200), Lyons is an arts-rooted destination, noted for its music, artists, and beautiful setting in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. Each year, the rare, franchise-free charm of Lyons lures hundreds of thousands of visitors from all over the world to stop and linger on their way to and from Rocky Mountain National Park. 

The heARTS of LYONS rotating collection offers a compelling parade of art that escorts travelers through the Town and entices return visits.  Known as the home of world-class music festivals, Lyons is also boasts famous breweries/distilleries, multiple wedding venues, independent restaurants, and an eclectic, historic downtown district.  

Currently dozens of sculptures are showcased in the town's historic downtown and along the banks of the beautiful St. Vrain River. The collection of works are promoted through the town's social media and tourism campaigns, guided art tours and a self-guided mobile app.  

The town is pleased to offer a $1000 honorarium for the loan of artists' work ($500 upon install and $500 upon de-install). Artists must be willing to agree to a two-year placement and sign a formal Artist/Lender Agreement. 

See 2024 agreement here:  https://www.townoflyons.com/artagreement

All works on display can be made available for public purchase. If this happens, we kindly ask the artist to replace the work with a similar piece and provide a 5-10% commission to the Lyons Arts & Humanities Commission.

Generally the Town of Lyons will provide landing bases (usually red sandstone) for each work.  Artists are responsible for getting their works to/from the landing site and overseeing the installation.

Application Requirements

Artists may submit up to a total of three works.  The Town has very limited wall space so free standing sculptures are best.  Artists want to avoid applying for sculptures with wood as this material doesn't withstand the outdoor elements. Selection criteria will consider durability, line of sight and public safety in addition to aesthetic and artistic merit.

Eligibility Criteria

Colorado artists only please.