A Coloring Book Buoys Cortez’s Community Heritage

Cortez has a rich history. For generations, ranching, farming, logging, and mining underpinned the vibrant community. More recently, tourism, recreation, and the creative arts have led a local resurgence. Signs of Cortez’s cultural heritage abound around town, but few residents have a deep connection to the area’s history. Staff with the City of Cortez, Montezuma County Historical Society, and Cortez Public Arts Advisory Council wanted to grow awareness of Cortez’s collective heritage and strengthen community pride. They came up with the idea to create a historic building coloring book illustrated by local artists, but they needed a little support, so they reached out to LOR. LOR’s funding will help compensate participating artists and cover the final printing of 1,500 coloring books. The books will then be donated to the Cortez Cultural Center and the Montezuma Heritage Museum, while a free PDF will allow local teachers to use the books in their classrooms.