HOW IT WORKS:

1. FIND YOUR SPARK.

Explore OPA’s 35th National Exhibition at the Steamboat Art Museum (free admission) and choose a work that inspires you.

2. PUT IT INTO WORDS. Write a poem or story — up to 500 words.

All entries must be single spaced, typed, and submitted online. (Handwritten entries will not be accepted.)
Entries must be original works created solely by the author. AI-generated or AI-assisted writing is NOT permitted.

3. SHARE YOUR WORK. Submit your application form and entry to steamboatartmuseum.org by July 10 | 5:00 PM. Entries open May 30.

Applications are free for SAM members and ages 18 & under.
$25 application fee for non-members
Entries will not be judged until payment is submitted.
All submitting authors receive a complimentary anthology featuring the collected works.

4. CELEBRATE CREATIVITY.

Join us at SAM Thursday, August 13 | 5:00 PM for the Awards & Readings Reception and enjoy refreshments, selected readings, and the power of art and storytelling.

Questions? Contact Betse Grassby at betse@steamboatartmuseum.org or 970-870-1755, ext. 100.

The Painted Words 2026: Presented by Steamboat Art Museum & Ski Town Media

9th Annual Visual Writing Event in Honor of Susan deWardt