The Colorado Springs Airport has introduced a new program called Art at COS, developed in partnership with the Cottonwood Center for the Arts and the Downtown Creative District’s Art on the Streets. The initiative was launched in October 2025 as part of Arts Month, which is organized by the Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region. The program began with a call for entries for a January 2026 art exhibit and the installation of three large outdoor sculptures on October 15 and 22, 2025.
Art at COS is intended to reflect the cultural diversity, creativity, and heritage of Colorado Springs. It revives and expands upon the airport’s previous Cultural Gateway of the Rockies program by introducing rotating art exhibits throughout the airport.
“With the launch of Art at COS, we have an opportunity to share the spirit of Colorado Springs with every traveler who passes through our airport,” said Alex Kovacs, Director of Aviation. “This program is about more than filling walls and spaces with art; it’s about honoring the identity of our community and creating a sense of place. From our history and diversity to the creativity that thrives here today, Art at COS allows us to showcase what makes Colorado Springs extraordinary.”
The indoor exhibitions, curated by Cottonwood Center for the Arts, will be located on the second floor near the TSA queuing area. The first exhibition is scheduled to open in January 2026, with new works displayed quarterly to feature local and regional artists.
“Colorado Springs Airport is so often the first impression of our city and the Pikes Peak Region, and Art at COS immediately connects visitors and residents alike to our vibrant community. Cottonwood is beyond thrilled to be stewarding this marvelous new gallery space, and we look forward to bringing thoughtfully selected collections of contemporary art to you!” said Jess Preble, Gallery Director at Cottonwood Center for the Arts.
Artists who wish to participate must apply through the Cottonwood Center for the Arts website at https://coloradosprings.gov/ArtatCOS. The airport will not accept submissions directly.
The program also includes outdoor sculptures chosen through an independent jury process as part of the Downtown Creative District’s Art on the Streets initiative. The first installations are Lepidoptera by Kasia Polkowska, installed on October 15, 2025, and Blossoming and Muse of Music by Jodi Bliss, both scheduled for installation on October 22, 2025.
“The Downtown Creative District is excited to partner with the Colorado Springs Airport for this initiative. The airport is a gateway to the Pikes Peak Region and Downtown, and this is a wonderful opportunity for our artists to use their creativity to welcome people to our community.” said Michelle Winchell, Creative District Director at Downtown Colorado Springs.
All artworks will be placed in areas of the airport that are accessible to both travelers and local visitors.
The Art at COS program is designed to highlight the city’s identity and authenticity, presenting Colorado Springs as more than just a transit point but as a place where art is integral to the community. The program also seeks to involve visitors, artists, and residents in celebrating the city’s creative landscape.
For more information or sponsorship opportunities, interested parties can contact Riley Cronin at riley.cronin@coloradosprings.gov or visit coloradosprings.gov/ArtatCOS.
