Water Education and Mural Build Community Literacy in Monte Vista

In a community where water is critical to agriculture, the local economy, and daily life, many Monte Vista residents lack a clear understanding of the area’s water challenges, making it difficult to engage in informed conversations about potential solutions. After successfully implementing a water education mural project in other San Luis Valley communities, a community engagement director approached LOR with the idea of bringing the project to Monte Vista in partnership with organizations already working on water-related issues. LOR’s funding will support the development of a locally tailored water curriculum; 8–10 educational sessions in schools and summer programs; a Monte Vista-based artist to lead collaborative design workshops; and the creation of a permanent community mural painted in a paint-by-number format. The project will engage students as “water ambassadors,” increase water literacy through field trips, educational programming, and community events, and create a highly visible public art installation that reflects the community’s unique relationship with water and its future.